testify
TESS-tih-fahy
/ˈtɛstɪfaɪ/
Give evidence as a witness in a law court.
Specifically refers to giving formal evidence under oath in a legal setting, not just telling a story casually.
The story behind the word. The word 'testify' comes from the Latin 'testificari,' meaning 'to bear witness.' This is formed from 'testis' (witness) and 'facere' (to make, to do). Interestingly, 'testis' itself is thought to relate to a 'third party' or 'standing by,' suggesting an impartial observer. So, to testify is to 'make oneself a witness' by formally declaring what one knows.
Word relationships
- depose: To depose is to give sworn evidence, typically out of court, in a deposition.
- attest: To attest is to declare that something is true or accurate, often in writing, but not necessarily in a court of law.
Commonly confused with
- allege: To 'testify' is to give sworn evidence of facts. To 'allege' is to claim or assert that someone has done something wrong, often without proof.
Word family
- testimony (noun): evidence or proof of something; a formal written or spoken statement, especially one given in a court of law.
- testifier (noun): one who testifies.
Collocations
- testify under oath
- testify against
- testify for
- refuse to testify
Example sentences
- "The expert witness was called to testify about the forensic evidence found at the crime scene." Describing a witness's action in court.
- "Under oath, he was compelled to testify truthfully about everything he knew regarding the incident." Referring to the obligation to give evidence.
Memory hook
To 'TESTIFY' is to give a 'TEST' of truth in court. TEST of truth
When not to use
Do not use 'testify' for casual storytelling or informal recounting of events; it implies a formal declaration.
Fun facts
- The phrase 'take the stand' refers to a witness going to the witness box to testify.
- In some legal systems, a defendant has the right not to testify, to avoid self-incrimination.
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