corroborate
kuh-ROB-uh-rayt
/kəˈrɒb.ə.reɪt/
To confirm or give support to a statement, theory, or finding with evidence.
Corroborate means adding independent evidence that strengthens an existing claim or account.
The story behind the word. Derived from Latin 'com-' (together) and 'roborare' (to strengthen), which comes from 'robur' meaning 'oak tree' or 'hardwood strength'. To corroborate a story is literally to make it as solid and sturdy as an oak tree.
Word relationships
- substantiate: Substantiate means providing solid substance or proof for a claim, whereas corroborate specifically means supporting an existing claim with seconding proof.
- verify: Verify means checking if something is accurate, while corroborate means strengthening a statement with additional backing.
- refute: Refute means proving a statement or theory false.
- contradict: Contradict means stating the direct opposite of a claim.
Commonly confused with
- recant: Corroborate means strengthening a statement, whereas recant means formally withdrawing a statement.
Word family
- corroboration (noun): Evidence that confirms or supports a statement.
- corroborative (adjective): Serving to corroborate or confirm.
Collocations
- corroborate evidence
- corroborate a story
- corroborate testimony
- independently corroborate
Example sentences
- "The forensic ballistics report served to corroborate the victim's account of the shooting." Detective work
Memory hook
COR-ROBOR-ATE: Robust evidence makes the case as strong as ROBOT armor! Strengthen with extra proof.
When not to use
Do not use 'corroborate' when merely repeating a story; you must offer additional, independent backing evidence.
Fun facts
- 'Robur' (oak) in Latin gave us both 'corroborate' and 'robust'—both implying oak-like strength.
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