corroborate
To confirm or give support to a statement, theory, or finding.
Examples
In a meeting
“The survey results corroborate what we heard in the customer interviews.”
Over coffee
“Two other witnesses corroborated her version of what happened.”
Why this word
confirm
corroborate emphasizes providing independent supporting evidence, while confirm simply validates truth
support
corroborate specifically means to strengthen with additional proof, while support is broader backing
verify
corroborate adds independent evidence to existing claims, while verify checks accuracy through examination
Usage tip
Implies independent confirmation — a second source agrees with the first. Stronger than 'agree' because it implies evidence.
Etymology
Latin corroborare — cor/com (together) + roborare (to strengthen, from robur 'strength')
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Related words
validate
To confirm that something is correct, sound, or meets requirements.
substantiate
To provide evidence to support or prove the truth of a claim.
substantiated
To provide evidence or proof for a claim
empirical
Based on observation or experience rather than theory
probative
Serving to test, prove, or demonstrate something, especially as evidence
confirm
To establish that something is definitely true or will happen