B1verb3K

Affirm

UK /["/əˈfɜːm/","/əˈfɜːmz/","/əˈfɜːmd/","/əˈfɜːmɪŋ/"]/US /["/əˈfɜːrm/","/əˈfɜːrmz/","/əˈfɜːrmd/","/əˈfɜːrmɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to state clearly that something is true

In simple words: To say that something is true or to support it.

Examples

  • Both sides affirmed their commitment to the ceasefire.
  • I can affirm that no one will lose their job.
  • We affirm the principle that leaders must be chosen by the people and be accountable to the people.
  • The decision was affirmed by the Court of Appeal.
  • They believe that it's important that parents affirm their children as they are.

Usage notes

Use 'affirm' in contexts that require a supportive or confirming statement. It's appropriate in formal discussions, but less so in casual conversations, where simpler words like 'say' or 'agree' might work better.

Grammar pattern

affirm + object

Memory hint

Sounds like 'a firm' — imagine a firm supporting a project.

Collocations

  • affirm one's beliefs
  • affirm a statement
  • affirm support
  • affirm a decision
  • affirm the truth

Synonyms

  • confirm

Antonyms

  • deny
  • reject
  • dispute

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'confirm'—they have similar meanings but different usages.
  • Using 'affirm' without an object (e.g., saying 'I affirm' instead of 'I affirm my support').
  • Incorrectly using 'affirm' in negative contexts.