evidence

Formsevidences, evidencing, evidenced

1. 1
   proofnoununcountable

   Facts, signs or observations that show something is true or exists, or that support a claim or belief.

   The scientist presented strong evidence for the new theory.

   Without solid evidence, the committee rejected the proposal.

   UsageSay evidence of or for something, and a piece of evidence (not incorrect: an evidence).

   Similarproof

   Note

   The everyday sense, and the one the word's history explains best. Latin evidentia meant "clearness" before Late Latin made it "a proof," so evidence is what makes a thing plain to see. Hume's maxim fits it well: a wise man proportions his belief to the evidence.

2. 2
   in courtnoununcountable

   In law, the testimony, documents and objects offered in a court case to prove or disprove disputed facts.

   The defense argued that the evidence had been gathered illegally.

   Several witnesses gave evidence about the night of the robbery.

   UsageWitnesses give evidence; lawyers present it, and a judge may admit it or rule it out.

   Similartestimony

   Note

   A courtroom narrows the word. Not everything offered is weighed: rules of relevance and admissibility decide what a jury may consider, yet excluded material is still called evidence. Unlike the everyday sense, the word here belongs to trials and their procedures.

3. 3
   showverbtransitive

   To provide proof of something, or to suggest that it is true.

   The detailed records evidence a long history of careful planning.

   His calm manner evidenced years of training.

   UsageMost often in the phrase as evidenced by, as in rising demand, as evidenced by the sales figures.

   Similarshow, demonstrate, reveal, indicate, prove

   Note

   In recent use it can even take a clause: in RAIL in 2022 the stated aim is to evidence why public ownership of the railways will work.

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