confirm

"Confirm" is a very useful everyday word with a few closely related meanings. At its core, it's about making something certain or official. Here are the most common ways it's used.

1verbto say something is true or correct

When you confirm something, you are telling someone that yes, it is definitely true. Think of it as giving a 'yes, that's right' to a fact or piece of information.

everyday language · Modern, widely used

The doctor confirmed that the test results were normal.

Can you confirm that you received my email?

The police confirmed that no one was injured in the accident.

2verbto make an arrangement official

When you confirm a booking, a meeting, or a plan, you are making it final and official — not just a possibility anymore. For example, you might book a hotel room online and then get an email to confirm your reservation.

business, travel, everyday language · Modern, widely used

Please confirm your appointment by calling the office.

She confirmed her flight reservation two days before departure.

The manager confirmed the meeting for 3 p.m. on Friday.

3verbto strengthen a belief or feeling

Sometimes you already suspect or believe something, and then something happens that confirms it — meaning it gives you proof or a strong reason to believe it even more.

everyday language, science · Modern, widely used

His nervous reaction confirmed my suspicion that he was hiding something.

The new research confirms what scientists have believed for years.

Winning the award confirmed her belief in her own talent.

4verbto officially approve someone in a role

In formal or political contexts, to confirm someone means to officially approve them for a position or role. This is common in government or organizations.

politics, business, formal language · Formal, widely used

The senate confirmed the new judge after a long debate.

She was confirmed as the new director of the company.

The board confirmed his appointment as chief executive.