C1verbformal10K+

Testify

UK /["/ˈtestɪfaɪ/","/ˈtestɪfaɪz/","/ˈtestɪfaɪd/","/ˈtestɪfaɪɪŋ/"]/US /["/ˈtestɪfaɪ/","/ˈtestɪfaɪz/","/ˈtestɪfaɪd/","/ˈtestɪfaɪɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to make a statement that something happened or that something is true, especially as a witness in court

In simple words: To say what you know in a court of law.

Examples

  • She agreed to testify in court about what she witnessed.
  • The witness was called to testify against the defendant.
  • Historically, artifacts testify to the culture of ancient civilizations.
  • The rise in sales testifies to the product's popularity.
  • During the trial, several experts testified about the safety standards.

Usage notes

Used primarily in legal contexts. It's formal and may not be appropriate in casual conversation. Doesn't typically appear in everyday language outside of courtroom discussions.

Grammar pattern

testify + (about/to) + object

Memory hint

Think of 'test' and 'fy' like making a formal statement; you testify to support the truth.

Collocations

  • falsely
  • truthfully
  • publicly
  • ask somebody to
  • call somebody to
  • call upon somebody to
  • against
  • before
  • for
  • testify in court
  • testify under oath

Synonyms

  • witness
  • declare
  • attest
  • affirm
  • swear

Antonyms

  • deny
  • refute
  • disprove

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'test' — testifying is verbal, while testing can be written or practical.
  • Omitting the preposition when following with a noun (e.g., 'testify my knowledge' instead of 'testify about my knowledge').