Communication is an essential part of our daily lives, and knowing different ways to express ourselves helps us connect with others more effectively. When it comes to confirming information or agreements, using variations of the word “confirm” can add versatility to your vocabulary. In this guide, we’ll explore formal and informal alternatives to the word “confirm” and provide numerous tips and examples along the way.
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Formal Ways to Say “Confirm”
Formal language is typically used in professional settings, academic writing, or when communicating with people you are not familiar with. Here are some formal alternatives to the word “confirm” that you can use in different contexts:
1. Verify
When you want to confirm or establish the truth or accuracy of something, “verify” is a suitable formal alternative. For example:
Can you verify if the meeting is still scheduled for tomorrow?
2. Corroborate
If you want to confirm information by providing additional evidence or support, you can use “corroborate.” This word implies that you are aligning your confirmation with other reliable sources. For instance:
The witness was able to corroborate the suspect’s alibi.
3. Affirm
To confirm or assert a statement as true, “affirm” is a formal option that carries a sense of certainty and confidence. Consider the following example:
The expert affirmed the validity of the research findings.
4. Validate
When you want to confirm the accuracy, truth, or legitimacy of something, “validate” is an appropriate formal alternative. It often implies a thorough process or evaluation. Here’s an example:
The bank needs to validate your income before approving the loan.
5. Assure
Although “assure” is not directly synonymous with “confirm,” it can be used to convey confirmation in a formal context. It implies providing confidence or guaranteeing the veracity of something. For example:
The spokesperson assured the public that the company would take immediate action.
Informal Ways to Say “Confirm”
Informal language is used in casual conversations with friends, family, or colleagues you are familiar with. Below are some informal alternatives that offer a more relaxed tone when confirming information:
1. Check
When you want to confirm or make sure of something in a casual context, “check” is commonly used. For instance:
Hey, could you check if we still have milk in the fridge?
2. Double-check
To emphasize the need for confirmation or to ensure accuracy, “double-check” is a commonly used phrase. Consider the example below:
I’ll double-check with my boss to confirm the deadline for the project.
3. Make sure
“Make sure” is a versatile phrase that can be used to confirm or emphasize the importance of checking something. Here’s an example:
Make sure to confirm the reservation before arriving at the restaurant.
4. Nail down
In informal contexts, “nail down” can be used to confirm or finalize plans or details. It suggests achieving certainty or clarity. For example:
Let’s nail down the time for the party before sending out the invitations.
5. Get the green light
An informal way to express confirmation is to “get the green light.” This phrase is often used when seeking approval or confirmation of a decision. Consider the following example:
I’ll talk to the manager to get the green light on our vacation request.
Conclusion
Expanding your vocabulary with formal and informal alternatives to the word “confirm” allows for better communication in various contexts. From formal settings to casual conversations, the alternatives mentioned, such as “verify,” “corroborate,” “check,” and “double-check,” provide you with numerous options to express confirmation more effectively. As you continue to practice and incorporate these alternatives into your daily conversations, your communication skills will undoubtedly become more nuanced and versatile.
