proof

Facts or information that show something is true or that something happened.

• Do you have any proof?
• This photo is proof that we were there.
• They asked for proof of payment before releasing the goods.

How to use it: proof of something (You must bring proof of your address.); proof that… (We have proof that the letter arrived.)

Similar words: evidence, confirmation

Common phrases: proof of identity, clear proof, provide proof

A series of logical steps that shows a mathematical statement must be true.

• The proof takes only three steps.
• We studied two different proofs of the theorem.
• Can you find an error in this mathematical proof?

How to use it: a proof of something (She presented a proof of the theorem.); proof by something (The teacher showed us a proof by induction.)

Similar words: demonstration

Common phrases: mathematical proof, proof by induction, proof of something

A test used to find out whether something is true or works properly.

• The bridge survived its first proof.
• They put the new blade to proof.
• A proof of strength revealed cracks in the metal.

Similar words: test, trial

Common phrases: put to proof, proof of strength

Able to resist something harmful or unwanted.

• The walls are proof against fire.
• She seemed proof against all criticism.
• No roof is completely proof against storm damage.

How to use it: proof against something (The material is proof against water.)

Similar words: resistant, immune

Opposites: vulnerable

Common phrases: proof against harm, proof against criticism

Used to test whether something is strong enough or works properly.

• The bridge held the proof load.
• A proof charge tests the strength of a gun barrel.
• The tank passed a test at proof pressure.

Common phrases: proof load, proof charge, proof pressure

To leave bread dough in a warm place so it grows before baking.

• Proof the dough for an hour.
• The rolls proofed in a warm kitchen.
• Have you proofed the dough yet?

Similar words: let rise

Common phrases: proof the dough, proof bread dough

To check that yeast works by mixing it with warm liquid and watching for bubbles.

• Proof the yeast in warm water.
• She proofed the yeast before mixing the dough.
• If it does not foam, the yeast has failed to proof.

Similar words: test

Common phrases: proof the yeast, proof dry yeast