Inklingo

How to Say "proof" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “proof” is “prueba” — use this word when referring to evidence that shows something is true, or for an academic test or exam.

prueba🔊A2

Use this word when referring to evidence that shows something is true, or for an academic test or exam.

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evidencia🔊A2

Choose this word for factual evidence or verification, especially in a legal or scientific context.

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demostraciónB1

Use this when 'proof' means a clear demonstration or exhibition of something's truth or validity.

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comprobaciónB1

This word refers to the act of checking or verifying something, like a calculation or a fact.

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argumento🔊B2

Use this when 'proof' refers to a line of reasoning or a set of facts presented to support a claim.

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constancia🔊B2

This is used for evidence that something has happened or exists, often officially recorded.

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justificaciónB2

Use this when you need a document or explanation that justifies an action or absence, like a medical note.

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testimonio🔊B2

This refers to tangible verification or evidence, often something that bears witness to a past event.

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fe🔊C1

Use this word when referring to documentary evidence or an attestation, often in a legal or official capacity.

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muestra🔊A1

This translates to 'proof' when it means a sample or specimen shown as evidence or for tasting.

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English → Spanish

prueba

prweh-bahˈpɾweβa

nounA2general
Use this word when referring to evidence that shows something is true, or for an academic test or exam.
A focused student sitting at a wooden desk with a pencil, diligently working on a simple academic test paper.

Examples

Tengo una prueba de español el viernes.

I have a Spanish test on Friday.

No hay prueba de que él estuviera allí.

There is no proof that he was there.

El detective busca pruebas para resolver el caso.

The detective is looking for evidence to solve the case.

Making Things 'Proof'

To say something is resistant to something else, like 'waterproof' or 'bulletproof', you can use the pattern 'a prueba de' + noun. For example, 'un reloj a prueba de agua' (a waterproof watch).

Prueba vs. Examen

Mistake: “Using 'prueba' and 'examen' as if they are exactly the same.”

Correction: They are very similar! Often, an 'examen' is a bigger, more formal test (like a final exam), while a 'prueba' can be a smaller test or quiz. But this can change depending on the country or school.

evidencia

eh-vee-DEHN-seeaheβiˈðenθja

nounA2general
Choose this word for factual evidence or verification, especially in a legal or scientific context.
A large magnifying glass hovering over a distinct, fresh footprint pressed into soft dirt, symbolizing proof.

Examples

La policía encontró evidencia clave en la escena del crimen.

The police found key evidence at the crime scene.

No hay suficiente evidencia para culparlo.

There is not enough proof to blame him.

La evidencia muestra que el calentamiento global es real.

The evidence shows that global warming is real.

Feminine Noun

Even though it doesn't end in -ción or -dad, 'evidencia' is always feminine. Use 'la' and 'una' with it: 'la evidencia.'

Confusing Gender

Mistake: “El evidencia (using masculine article).”

Correction: Use the feminine article: 'La evidencia.' Always treat it as a feminine word.

demostración

nounB1general
Use this when 'proof' means a clear demonstration or exhibition of something's truth or validity.

Examples

Su victoria fue una demostración de que el equipo había mejorado mucho.

Their victory was a demonstration that the team had improved a lot.

comprobación

nounB1general
This word refers to the act of checking or verifying something, like a calculation or a fact.

Examples

Haz una comprobación rápida de tu maleta antes de salir.

Do a quick check of your suitcase before leaving.

argumento

ar-goo-MEN-tohaɾɣuˈmento

nounB2general
Use this when 'proof' refers to a line of reasoning or a set of facts presented to support a claim.
A storybook illustration showing two friendly cartoon figures standing across a table, calmly presenting their points. One figure gestures towards a balanced scale, and the other points to a set of stacked blocks, symbolizing reasons or evidence.

Examples

Presentó un argumento muy sólido a favor del cambio climático.

He presented a very solid argument in favor of climate change.

Mi jefe no aceptó mis argumentos para llegar tarde.

My boss did not accept my reasons for being late.

Argumento vs. Discusión/Pelea

Mistake: “Using 'argumento' to mean a heated fight or dispute.”

Correction: Use 'discusión' or 'pelea' for a verbal fight. 'Argumento' means the *point* or *reason* you are presenting, not the conflict itself.

constancia

kons-TAHN-syahkonsˈtanθja

nounB2formal
This is used for evidence that something has happened or exists, often officially recorded.
A formal document with a gold wax seal and a blue ribbon.

Examples

Quiero dejar constancia de mi desacuerdo en el acta.

I want to put my disagreement on the record in the minutes.

No hay constancia de que él estuviera allí.

There is no record that he was there.

Pide una constancia de estudios en la oficina.

Ask for a certificate of enrollment at the office.

Record of what?

When you want to say 'record of' something, use the word 'de'. For example: 'constancia de pago' (proof of payment).

Constancia vs. Record

Mistake: “Mira mi record de notas.”

Correction: Mira mi constancia de notas. While 'récord' is used for sports achievements, 'constancia' is used for official school or work documents.

justificación

nounB2formal
Use this when you need a document or explanation that justifies an action or absence, like a medical note.

Examples

Necesito una justificación médica para faltar al trabajo.

I need a medical note (proof) to miss work.

testimonio

tes-ti-MOH-niotes.tiˈmo.njo

nounB2general
This refers to tangible verification or evidence, often something that bears witness to a past event.
A large magnifying glass is held over a small, distinct object (like a key or a clear footprint) resting on a surface, symbolizing evidence.

Examples

Los restos arqueológicos son un testimonio de la antigua civilización.

The archaeological remains are evidence (or proof) of the ancient civilization.

Necesitas un testimonio notarial para validar la hipoteca.

You need a notarized document (certified copy) to validate the mortgage.

Proof vs. Document

In many Spanish-speaking countries, 'testimonio' in a legal office means 'a certified, official copy of a public deed,' like a title or will. It's more specific than just 'documento'.

fe

/fay/ (rhymes with the English word 'day')fe

nounC1formal
Use this word when referring to documentary evidence or an attestation, often in a legal or official capacity.
A perfectly crafted, smooth, and detailed wooden key resting on a simple red velvet cushion, representing authenticity and validity.

Examples

El abogado dio fe de la firma del contrato.

The lawyer attested to (certified) the signature on the contract.

Se presume que actuó de buena fe durante las negociaciones.

It is presumed that he acted in good faith during the negotiations.

The 'Dar Fe' Phrase

The phrase 'dar fe' is used when someone (often an official like a notary or clerk) confirms that something is true, real, or happened, giving it legal weight.

muestra

MOO-ehs-trahˈmwestra

nounA1general
This translates to 'proof' when it means a sample or specimen shown as evidence or for tasting.
A close-up of a hand holding a tiny, clear plastic cup filled with a small portion of brightly colored blue liquid, representing a sample.

Examples

¿Podría darme una muestra del queso?

Could you give me a sample of the cheese?

El doctor pidió una muestra de orina.

The doctor requested a urine specimen.

La exposición es una muestra del arte moderno.

The exhibition is a display of modern art.

Gender Tip

Remember that muestra is always feminine: la muestra. This is essential for pairing it with the correct articles and adjectives.

Prueba vs. Evidencia

Learners often confuse 'prueba' and 'evidencia'. Remember that 'prueba' is broader, covering tests and general evidence, while 'evidencia' is more specific to factual, often undeniable proof, especially in formal settings.

Related Translations

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