Words / C1

uh-FURM/əˈfɜːm/

To affirm is to state publicly that something is true, or to confirm it formally: affirm a date, affirm a commitment. Confirm is the close twin; deny sits opposite; a thumbs-up in a chat is not a minute. Assert (already in the dictionary) is firmer and more argumentative.

Meaning

To state publicly that something is true, or to confirm it formally.

Examples

• “Affirm the embargo date in the minute; a thumbs-up on a group chat is not a record.”
• “Confirm is the close twin. Assert is already in this course and more combative. A chat reaction is colour. A minute is the record. Write the date; archive the emoji.”

Good to know

State firmly as true / confirm. Close: confirm. Cousin: assert (already in the dictionary). A chat reaction ≠ a minute.

Near in meaning

confirm

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