establish
21 synonyms and 0 antonyms for establish, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To set something up so firmly that it becomes permanent or generally accepted.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use establish
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Old French establir, from Latin stabilire, "to make stable" — from stabilis, "firm, steady."
Full origin of establish →Frequently asked questions
What does “establish” mean?
The word “establish” means to set something up so firmly that it becomes permanent or generally accepted. In plain terms, to start or set up something so it lasts, or to prove something is true with solid evidence.
How do you pronounce “establish”?
“Establish” is pronounced ih-STAB-lihsh (/ɪˈstæb.lɪʃ/ in IPA).
How do you use “establish” in a sentence?
Here is “establish” used in a sentence: “The company established a new office in Singapore last year.”
What part of speech is “establish”?
“Establish” is a verb.
Where does the word “establish” come from?
The word “establish” comes from Latin. From Old French establir, from Latin stabilire, "to make stable" — from stabilis, "firm, steady.".
Is “establish” a common word?
“Establish” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.
How many meanings does “establish” have?
“Establish” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to set something up so firmly that it becomes permanent or generally accepted.
What is the difference between establish and create?
To create something is simply to bring it into existence. To establish it goes further: you set it up on a firm, lasting footing so that it endures or becomes widely accepted. You might create a rule in a moment, but you establish it only once it takes hold and truly sticks.
What is the difference between establish and found?
The two overlap when talking about organisations. To found something is to start it, to be the one who brings it into being. To establish it means setting it up so securely that it lasts and gains acceptance. You can found a company on day one but spend years establishing it.
What is an example of establish?
You might establish a business, meaning you set it up to run permanently, or establish a rule that everyone comes to follow. You can also establish trust, a reputation, or a routine. In each case the word implies not just starting something, but making it firm, lasting, or generally accepted.
What does it mean to establish yourself?
To establish yourself is to become recognised, secure, and respected in a particular field or place. A writer establishes herself once her name is known and her position is settled. It suggests you have moved past starting out and are now firmly and durably part of that world.