Affirm vs. Confirm

synonyms

This time we're gonna delve into the differences and similarities between 'affirm' and 'confirm'. Join me, and let's see what they're about.

What Is Their Main Difference?

Both of these words indicate that something is validated and true. However, 'affirm' is more common in law courts and it is prevalently used in positive situations whereas, 'confirm' is more common in informal contexts and it can be used to validate both negative and positive information.

Differences

As stated above, we mainly use 'affirm' to state that something is true in law courts. It is not as common as 'confirm'. Additionally, we mostly use it in positive contexts. Look:

The former president still did not affirm his guilt.

We have decided to set new rules affirming the principles and rights of equality between men and women.

However, 'confirm' is much more common in everyday speech and it is used to validate something, be it positive or negative. Look at the following examples:

Did she confirm the news?

I want witnesses to confirm that this man was at home when his neighbor was murdered.

Similarities

Their main similarity is that both are used to validate and announce that something is true and approved of. Check out the following examples:

As I told her the gossip, she had no choice but to confirm it all.

The town council has not affirmed the earlier decision yet.

Tip!

'Confirm' is also used in religious contexts. In some Christian religions, when someone is accepted as a member, they are 'confirmed'.

Are They Interchangeable?

Although both are close in meaning, they cannot be used interchangeably. Compare:

✓ The couple finally confirmed that they are to have a baby soon.

✓ The couple finally affirmed that they are to have a baby soon.

We mainly use 'affirm' in formal, political contexts, so this is not so common.

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