proved

word · lemma: prove

/ˈpɹuvd/
proovd
/pɹˈuːvd/
proovd

Definition

Past tense of 'prove'. It means to show that something is true with facts, evidence, or results, or to show that you can do something successfully.

Usage & Nuances

'Proved' is common in everyday English; 'proven' is also used, especially before nouns ('a proven method') and sometimes as a past participle in informal use. Common patterns: 'prove something', 'prove that...', and 'prove yourself'. Do not confuse it with 'improve'.

Example Sentences

The test proved that the water was safe.

basic

She proved her point with clear examples.

basic

He proved he could do the job.

basic

That little experiment proved me wrong.

natural

She really proved herself during the crisis.

natural

In the end, the data proved what we suspected all along.

natural