probative
Serving to test, prove, or demonstrate something, especially as evidence
Examples
In a meeting
“The email chain is highly probative of the timeline we established for the project delays.”
Over coffee
“That receipt is probative—it proves you were actually at the store when you said.”
Why this word
relevant
probative means tending to prove something in legal context, while relevant just means connected or pertinent
evidential
probative specifically indicates value in proving a fact, while evidential merely means relating to evidence
useful
probative is a legal term for evidence that actually tends to prove or disprove a point, while useful is vague and general
Usage tip
Common in legal contexts regarding evidence value; describes how well something proves or demonstrates a point.
Etymology
Latin 'probativus' from 'probare' (to test, prove)
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Related words
substantiate
To provide evidence to support or prove the truth of a claim.
substantiated
To provide evidence or proof for a claim
refute
To prove a statement or argument is wrong
empirical
Based on observation or experience rather than theory
enjoin
To legally prohibit or order someone to do or not do something
proscribe
To officially forbid or condemn something