establish

To start or create something that is intended to continue for a long time.

• They established a small company.
• The school was established in 1980.
• We hope to establish a lasting relationship with our neighbours.

Similar words: set up, found, create

Opposites: abolish

Common phrases: establish a business, establish a relationship, establish a system, establish contact

To show clearly that something is true or find out the facts about it.

• We need to establish the facts.
• Police established that the letter was fake.
• Has anyone established the cause of the fire?

How to use it: establish that… (The tests established that the water was safe.); establish whether… (We must establish whether anyone saw the accident.)

Similar words: prove, confirm, demonstrate, determine

Opposites: disprove

Common phrases: establish the facts, establish the cause, establish someone's identity, establish the truth

To make a position, reputation, or arrangement firm and secure.

• The victory established their position at the top.
• Years of reliable work established his reputation.
• The ruler struggled to establish control over the region.

How to use it: establish someone/something as something (The victory established her as a leading player.)

Similar words: secure, strengthen, confirm

Opposites: undermine

Common phrases: establish someone's reputation, establish someone's authority, establish control, firmly establish