Evidence Meaning and Definition
Evidence
Pronunciation
/ˈɪvədəns/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A fact, piece of information, or proof that supports or is used as an argument to establish or confirm a point, claim, or theory.
Examples
- The expert presented evidence that the company’s financial reports were inaccurate.
- The detective gathered evidence from the crime scene to solve the murder case.
Synonyms
- Proof
- Testimony
- Verdict
Antonyms
- Conjecture
- Gossip
- Lie
Etymology
The word ‘Evidence’ comes from the Old French ‘evident’, meaning ‘clear’ or ‘plain’, and is derived from the Latin ‘videre’, meaning ‘to see’.
Usage Notes
Evidence is a vital concept in various fields, including law, science, and philosophy. It’s essential to use evidence-based reasoning in decision-making processes.
Cultural References
The concept of evidence is often referenced in popular culture, such as in crime dramas like ‘CSI’ or ‘Law & Order’, where investigators gather and analyze evidence to solve crimes.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
In the phrase ‘smoking gun’, evidence that proves a point or accusation. ‘On the evidence’, based on available facts rather than opinion.
Related Words or Phrases
Accusation, Testimony, Proof, Speculation, Conjecture, Lie
Collocations
Evidence-based medicine, Evidence-supported theory, Evidence of wrongdoing
Frequency of Use
Evidence is a commonly used term in modern language, appearing in a wide range of contexts, including academic, professional, and everyday conversations.
Common Misspellings
Evidens, Evdence, Evidance