In 15 Seconds
- - Connects evidence to a conclusion.
- - Used for validation and certainty.
- - Neutral to formal register.
- - Powerful way to state proven facts.
Meaning
This phrase is your go-to for showing that new evidence proves something you already suspected or believed. It's like a verbal high-five to yourself when the facts line up perfectly. You use it to add weight and certainty, saying, 'See, the data supports my point!'
Key Examples
3 of 11Reviewing an official document
I've read the signed contract, and **this confirms that** all terms are agreed upon.
I've read the signed contract, and this confirms that all terms are agreed upon.
Texting a friend about plans
Got your message about dinner. **This confirms that** we're meeting at 7 PM, right?
Got your message about dinner. This confirms that we're meeting at 7 PM, right?
Reporting research findings
Our experimental results clearly show **this confirms that** the new compound is highly effective.
Our experimental results clearly show this confirms that the new compound is highly effective.
Cultural Background
In American business culture, 'This confirms that' is often used to 'close' a discussion once data is presented. It signals that the debate is over because the evidence is in. British speakers might use this phrase with a touch of understatement or irony. If it's pouring rain, someone might say, 'Well, this confirms that the British summer has arrived,' meaning it's predictably bad. In Japanese corporate settings (using the equivalent), this phrase is used to maintain 'Wa' (harmony) by letting the data speak rather than the person's opinion. Germans value 'Sachlichkeit' (objectivity). 'This confirms that' is a staple in German communication because it focuses on the 'Sache' (the matter/fact) rather than personal feelings.
Use it to sound more professional
Instead of saying 'I think the project is going well,' say 'The latest milestones confirm that the project is on track.'
Don't over-confirm
If you use this phrase for every tiny detail, you can sound like a robot or a detective in a bad movie.
In 15 Seconds
- - Connects evidence to a conclusion.
- - Used for validation and certainty.
- - Neutral to formal register.
- - Powerful way to state proven facts.
What It Means
Ever had a hunch that turned out to be true? Or maybe you presented a theory, and then *BAM!* new information arrives, making you look like a genius? That’s exactly when you pull out This confirms that. It’s your linguistic mic drop. You’re not just stating a fact; you’re saying, “My previous idea? Totally validated.” It gives your statement a sense of finality and authority. Think of it as the verbal equivalent of a detective closing a case with a satisfied nod.
How To Use It
Using This confirms that is pretty straightforward. You present some evidence or a situation. Then, you follow it with the phrase. Finally, you state the conclusion or established fact. It creates a logical bridge between observation and certainty. It’s perfect for reinforcing a point. You often see it in formal reports or professional discussions. But it's also handy in everyday talks. Just don’t overdo it, or you might sound like a robot. Nobody likes a conversational bot, unless it’s helping them order pizza.
Formality & Register
This phrase comfortably sits in the neutral to formal register. It's precise and leaves little room for ambiguity. You'll find it often in business emails, official documents, or academic papers. It projects confidence and professionalism. In casual settings, it can sound a bit stiff. Your friends might prefer a simpler, “Yep, that proves it!” or “Called it!” But if you want to sound particularly authoritative, even in informal chats, This confirms that works. Just be ready for a few raised eyebrows if you use it while discussing last night’s reality TV.
Real-Life Examples
Imagine getting a notification about a flight delay. You then check the airline's official app. This confirms that the flight is delayed by two hours. Or a news report breaking about an event. You find an official statement. This confirms that the rumors were true. It’s about verifying information. It adds credibility to your statement. On Instagram, you might see a celebrity post. If it aligns with past gossip, someone could comment, This confirms that they’re dating! It’s all about factual alignment.
When To Use It
- Official Announcements: When relaying verified information.
The press release confirms that the merger is complete. - Data Analysis: When your findings support a hypothesis.
Our sales figures confirm that the new strategy is working. - Confirming Plans: When final details are settled.
Your email confirms that we're meeting at 10 AM. - Problem Solving: When you identify the root cause.
The diagnostic test confirms that the hard drive failed. - Personal Validation: When something you thought turns out to be true.
His quiet reaction confirms that he was upset.
Basically, whenever you have definitive proof, this phrase is your friend. It’s like having a little stamp that says “Verified” for your words.
When NOT To Use It
- When guessing: Don't use it if you're speculating.
This confirms that aliens built the pyramidsmight raise eyebrows without evidence. - For minor, obvious things: "The sun is shining, this confirms that it's daytime" is a bit much. No need to over-confirm the blindingly obvious. Save it for actual revelations.
- In overly casual banter: With close friends, it can feel stiff. "My mom texted, this confirms that she loves me" might get you a sarcastic eye-roll.
- To contradict politely: It’s too strong for gentle disagreement. Use softer phrases instead. You don’t want to sound like you’re lecturing your pet hamster.
Common Mistakes
This confirms to me that the report is accurate.
✓This confirms that the report is accurate. (The to me is redundant and can weaken the statement.)
Confirming that the meeting is at 3 PM.
✓This confirms that the meeting is at 3 PM. (Needs a subject to be a complete sentence and more formal.)
This confirmed that will happen.
✓This confirms that it will happen. (Missing a subject after that for clarity.)
This confirms about my appointment.
✓This confirms my appointment. or This confirms that I have an appointment. (About is unnecessary.)
Remember, precision is key here. Think of it like assembling IKEA furniture; every piece has its exact spot.
Common Variations
While This confirms that is pretty standard, you might hear or use alternatives that convey similar meanings or shift the nuance slightly.
- More formal:
This substantiates that,This corroborates that,This verifies that(often used in legal or academic contexts). These are likeThis confirms that's older, slightly stuffier cousins. - Slightly less formal/more direct:
This proves that,This shows that,This indicates that. These cut straight to the chase. - Casual:
This backs up the idea that,Yep, that's what I thought,Called it!(for when you’re feeling smug). - Regional differences: The core phrase remains consistent. However, the alternatives chosen might vary by industry or personal style. A scientist in London will use it much like a scientist in New York.
Real Conversations
Boss: "Did that new marketing campaign actually boost sales?"
Marketing Lead: "Yes, the Q3 report just came in. This confirms that our social media push was a huge success!"
Friend 1 (texting): "I bet Emily and Ben are engaged. They've been so secretive."
Friend 2 (later, sees Emily's Instagram): "OMG! She just posted a pic with a ring! This confirms that they're engaged! I knew it!"
Lawyer: "We had a strong case, but the defense had some tricky arguments."
Judge: "The jury's verdict has been read. This confirms that the defendant is guilty on all counts."
Doctor: "Your lab results are back. This confirms that you're making excellent progress with the treatment."
Quick FAQ
- Q: Can I use
This confirmswithoutthat?
A: Yes! You can say, This confirms my suspicion. or This confirms the booking. if the object of confirmation is clear. You drop that when the confirmed item is a direct object.
- Q: Is it always about something positive?
A: Not at all! It just means something is proven true, whether good or bad. The evidence confirms that the error was our fault. is perfectly valid.
- Q: Can
thisrefer to a whole situation?
A: Absolutely. The way he avoided eye contact and changed the subject, this confirms that he knows something. Here, this encapsulates all his actions.
- Q: Is it okay in academic writing?
A: Yes, it’s a very common and accepted phrase in academic and scientific writing for stating conclusions based on evidence. It's formal enough.
- Q: Does it imply a previous belief?
A: Often, yes. It carries the nuance of validating a prior idea or expectation. But it can also introduce a newly verified fact.
- Q: What's the difference between
This confirms thatandI confirm that?
A: This confirms that refers to *evidence* or a *situation* as the source of confirmation. I confirm that means *you* are personally providing the confirmation. Big difference in who's doing the confirming!
Remember, language is a journey, not a destination. Keep exploring!
Usage Notes
Use `This confirms that` when you have solid evidence to back up a statement, adding weight and authority to your words. It’s a neutral to formal phrase, so while it works anywhere, it shines in professional and academic settings. Be cautious not to use it when merely speculating, as it strongly implies definitive proof, and avoid unnecessary 'to me' constructions for better flow. It's your verbal stamp of authenticity.
Use it to sound more professional
Instead of saying 'I think the project is going well,' say 'The latest milestones confirm that the project is on track.'
Don't over-confirm
If you use this phrase for every tiny detail, you can sound like a robot or a detective in a bad movie.
Examples
11I've read the signed contract, and **this confirms that** all terms are agreed upon.
I've read the signed contract, and this confirms that all terms are agreed upon.
Used to formalize understanding after reviewing evidence.
Got your message about dinner. **This confirms that** we're meeting at 7 PM, right?
Got your message about dinner. This confirms that we're meeting at 7 PM, right?
Used to seek or give informal confirmation of a plan.
Our experimental results clearly show **this confirms that** the new compound is highly effective.
Our experimental results clearly show this confirms that the new compound is highly effective.
Highlights how data supports a conclusion in a formal context.
Sunrise over the mountains. **This confirms that** early mornings are truly magical! ⛰️✨
Sunrise over the mountains. This confirms that early mornings are truly magical! ⛰️✨
A poetic use to validate a personal feeling or observation.
Just received the tracking email. **This confirms that** my new gadget is on its way!
Just received the tracking email. This confirms that my new gadget is on its way!
Used to state a fact confirmed by an online notification.
He's wearing that same silly hat again. **This confirms that** he really doesn't care about fashion.
He's wearing that same silly hat again. This confirms that he really doesn't care about fashion.
A lighthearted use to validate a humorous observation.
The client's approval email arrived this morning, and **this confirms that** we can proceed with Phase 2.
The client's approval email arrived this morning, and this confirms that we can proceed with Phase 2.
Provides clear, documented confirmation for moving forward.
After the final votes were tallied, **this confirms that** the incumbent has won re-election.
After the final votes were tallied, this confirms that the incumbent has won re-election.
Used for definitive political results.
✗ Thank you for the interview, this confirms to me that I am a great fit. → ✓ Thank you for the interview; **this confirms that** I am a great fit.
Thank you for the interview, this confirms to me that I am a great fit. → Thank you for the interview; this confirms that I am a great fit.
Avoid the redundant 'to me' and ensure proper sentence structure for formality.
✗ He just posted that, confirms that it's true. → ✓ He just posted that, and **this confirms that** it's true.
He just posted that, confirms that it's true. → He just posted that, and this confirms that it's true.
Ensure the phrase is part of a complete thought, often needing a preceding clause or connector.
Watching the blooper reel... **This confirms that** I definitely shouldn't try that at home. 😂
Watching the blooper reel... This confirms that I definitely shouldn't try that at home.
Humorous self-deprecating confirmation of a personal limit.
Test Yourself
Complete the sentence using the correct form of the phrase.
The empty fridge _______ that nobody went grocery shopping yesterday.
We need the singular 'confirms' to match 'The empty fridge' and no 'me' is needed.
Which sentence uses the phrase most naturally in a business context?
Select the best option:
Option A follows the standard [Subject] + confirms + [that-clause] pattern.
Fill in the missing line to complete the logical deduction.
A: 'The suspect's DNA was found at the scene.' B: '_________________.'
In spoken English, the word 'that' is often optional, though 'This confirms that' is more formal.
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
3 exercisesThe empty fridge _______ that nobody went grocery shopping yesterday.
We need the singular 'confirms' to match 'The empty fridge' and no 'me' is needed.
Select the best option:
Option A follows the standard [Subject] + confirms + [that-clause] pattern.
A: 'The suspect's DNA was found at the scene.' B: '_________________.'
In spoken English, the word 'that' is often optional, though 'This confirms that' is more formal.
🎉 Score: /3
Video Tutorials
Find video tutorials on YouTube for this phrase.
Frequently Asked Questions
2 questionsIt can be a bit heavy. For texting, you might just say 'So it's true!' or 'I knew it!'
No, you should say 'This confirms my suspicion' or 'This confirms for me that...'
Related Phrases
This proves that
similarShows something is 100% true.
This suggests that
contrastShows something might be true.
This corroborates that
specialized formUsed when one piece of evidence supports another.