Command Words

Verify

Substitute the given value into the equation and show that it satisfies it.

Definition

"Verify" is gentler than "prove" or "show that". You are given a value and asked to confirm it works. Substitute it in. Show both sides simplify to the same number.

Example

Verify that x = 3 satisfies x² − 9 = 0. Substitute: 3² − 9 = 9 − 9 = 0. Verified.

Related terms

Show that

You must demonstrate the result starting from given values — the answer is provided, your job is the working.

Prove

Demonstrate that a statement is always true, using general (often algebraic) reasoning, not specific numbers.

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