Difference Between Affirm and Confirm

Main Difference – Affirm vs Confirm

Affirm and confirm are two words that are often confused by many people. The main difference between affirm and confirm is that affirm is to state emphatically or publicly whereas confirm is to establish the truth or correctness of something.

Affirm – Meaning and Usage

Affirm is a regular verb that has several meanings. Affirm can mean,

To state emphatically or publicly

The minister affirmed that new policies were going to be introduced.

He continued to affirm his religious views.

To declare one’s support for; uphold; defend

The law affirms the public’s right to vote.

We use citations in a text to affirm our opinions.

To assert something as valid or confirmed – a judgment or decree

The court affirmed that he was innocent of all charges.

The decision was affirmed by the high court.

In law, affirm specifically refers to upholding a judgment or decree of a lower court.

The Court of Appeal affirmed the decision of the High Court

Affirm can also refer to making a formal declaration rather than taking an oath.

The minister affirmed the country’s commitment to peace.

Confirm – Meaning and Usage

Confirm is a transitive verb that basically refers to establishing the truth or validity of something that was previously suspected or believed to be the case. Confirm can be used to say that some fact is true and correct, or that something has definitely happened or is going to happen. Confirm can refer to strengthening or reinforcing some opinion, feeling, status, etc. as well. For example,

The doctor’s office called to confirm his appointment.

The test confirmed that she was in the last stage of Cancer.

He confirmed that he had signed a new contract.

This news confirmed her worst fears about cell phones.

The author confirmed that certain incidents in the novel were based on her childhood experiences.

Presidential Media Unit confirmed that the president was resigning from his post.

Her experience at the animal shelter confirmed her ambition to be a vet.

Confirm can also mean to formally declare that someone has been appointed to a certain position.

He was confirmed as the new Sports Minister.

Soon after his transfer, she was confirmed as the head of Finance.

Confirm can also refer to the religious rite at which a baptized person is admitted as a full member of the Church.

She confirmed that the rumors were true.