provable
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /prˈuːvəbəl/
US
- /ˈpruvəbəl/
Description
- demonstrable
- verifiable
- able to be proven
Something is provable when it can be shown to be true with evidence or clear reasoning. It is not just a hunch or a guess. Think of a detective working on a case; they need facts they can prove, not just suspicions. A mathematical theorem is provable because it follows from rules and logical steps. The word is often used in law, mathematics, and science, where proof matters. You might say a claim is provable if it matches the facts and can be supported by reliable evidence.
The word provable describes something that can be shown to be true or correct through evidence, logic, or careful reasoning. It is more than just believable or likely; it can be supported in a way that stands up to checking. The idea is especially important in fields like mathematics, science, and law, where proof matters.
Consider a geometric theorem: it is provable because you can follow a series of logical steps to reach a conclusion. In a courtroom, a claim may be called provable if there is enough evidence to support it under the legal standard being used. In science, a claim may be described this way when observations, measurements, and repeatable results strongly support it.
However, provable does not always mean that everyone agrees right away. Sometimes proof depends on certain assumptions, definitions, or systems of logic. Also, something may be hard to prove in practice but still be provable in principle. Near opposites include words like "unproven," "speculative," or "conjectural."
So, when you encounter the word provable, think of something that can be backed by facts, evidence, or a clear line of reasoning. It is the kind of idea or claim that can hold up under close examination because there is real support behind it.
Examples
- 1
Math class
In math class, we had to give a provable answer, not just a guess.
- 2
Public records
The article includes only claims that are provable from public records.
Pattern
provable from + evidence
able to be shown using that evidence
- 3
Legal case
Her suspicion seemed reasonable, but it was not provable in court.
Phrase
in court
in a legal case
- 4
Medical research
Some benefits of the treatment may be real, but they are not yet scientifically provable.
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- provableadjective