Verbal Success® Power Words eCourse
LESSON 3 OF 7
Welcome to the Verbal Success® Power Word Lessons!
Below is your third Power Word Lesson.
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If, in a court of law, you were categorically and unequivocally denying guilt, you would be attesting to your innocence. What are some other words you might use to declare, state, or prove that something is true? The words attest, assert, affirm, aver, avow and contend are used to formally state that something is true, often in an official capacity.
Attest can refer to giving testimony in a court of law. Attest is also used to mean that something has shown something else to be true, correct, or genuine. For example, “I can attest to his talent,” or, “His career success attests to his talent.” Attest is similar in meaning to assert, affirm, aver, and avow (all “a” words).
To assert means, “to declare boldly, forcefully, and categorically.” Sometimes you need to assert your point of view, so that people will respect you and believe you. You can also assert yourself if you’re trying to gain respect and recognition. For example, a new employee might assert him or herself in a meeting, by confidently putting forth new ideas. To affirm means confirm or corroborate that something is true. “No one believed that there was an accident until I affirmed I saw it happen.”
Aver means “to state confidently.” When you aver something you have verified the truth and veracity of your statement, and you know it to be 100% certain. Avow is similar to aver because it also means “to state that something is true,” but avow is best used to state, and often to admit, guilt or culpability.
Avow should be used to state an open declaration. Here’s an example of correct usage for attest and avow: “I attest that he is innocent and was with me last night.” “I avow that I am guilty of the crime.” Again, avow tends to be used to state guilt or to acknowledge something bad.
Finally, contend means to maintain or assert you point of view. While the “a” words we just discussed simply denote stating or declaring something, when you contend something, you may have to argue in defense of your statement. For instance, “I disagree with your view, and I contend that democracy will spread around the world.”
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Sincerely,
Greg Ragland |
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