I bear witness

Meanings

1. 1phrasefixed phraseformal

   I formally state that something is true, especially from my own knowledge or experience.

   Grammar: Used as a complete statement; often followed by 'to' or 'that': I bear witness to her honesty.

   Patterns

   • I bear witness to something
   • I bear witness that ...

   I bear witness to the fact that she was at home all evening.

   I bear witness that the document was signed in my presence.

   Several neighbors were ready to bear witness to what they had seen.

2. 2phrasefixed phrasereligion

   In some religious services, I declare my faith or publicly acknowledge God.

   Grammar: Common in church settings; often part of a set prayer or testimony.

   Patterns

   • I bear witness that ...
   • bear witness to God

   In the meeting, members stood and said, 'I bear witness to the truth of this gospel.'

   She bore witness to her faith in front of the whole congregation.

Common combinations

bear witness to something

Many people can bear witness to his kindness.

bear false witness

The law forbids you to bear false witness against your neighbor.

bear witness against someone

No one was willing to bear witness against the gang.

Synonyms and how they differ

testify

More common in legal contexts; it is the usual verb for giving evidence in court.

attest

More formal and often used with 'to'; it stresses confirming a fact.

Word family

witness noun

A person who sees an event or gives evidence.

bear witness phrase

To give evidence or testify.

Commonly confused: I bear witness or bear witness?

Practice

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Write a sentence using “I bear witness”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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