confute

/kən'fju:t/

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Word: Confute

Part of Speech: Verb

Definition: To confute means to prove that something is wrong or false. It often involves showing that a statement, theory, or argument is incorrect.

Usage Instructions:

• "Confute" is typically used in more formal or academic contexts. It is not a common word in everyday conversation, but you might encounter it in debates, discussions, or writings about science, philosophy, or logic.

Example Sentence:

• The scientist was able to confute the old theory by providing new evidence from his research.

Advanced Usage:

• In academic papers, you might say, "The author sought to confute the prevailing assumptions in the field." This means the author is trying to prove those assumptions wrong.

Word Variants:

• Confutation (noun): The act of proving something to be false.
  • Example: "The confutation of the theory was met with resistance from some scholars."
• Confutative (adjective): Relating to the act of proving something false.
  • Example: "His confutative arguments were well-received by the audience."

Different Meanings:

While "confute" generally means to prove something false, it is often used in contexts involving logic, philosophy, or scientific debate. It does not have many other meanings.

Synonyms:

• Disprove
• Refute
• Contradict
• Debunk

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs that directly relate to "confute," but you might come across phrases like: - "Put to the test" (to challenge something to see if it holds true). - "Call into question" (to doubt or challenge the truth of something).

Summary:

"Confute" is a formal verb that means to prove something wrong or false, often used in academic and logical discussions.

Academic

Verb

1. prove to be false
   • The physicist disproved his colleagues' theories

Synonyms

• disprove