English dictionary, thesaurus, translations & etymology
FreeDict.com
adj

probative

PROH-buh-tihv

Probative (adj) means serving to prove or provide evidence for something, especially in a legal context. Example: “The judge ruled the photo had strong probative value in the case.”

adj
1
Serving to prove or provide evidence for something, especially in a legal context.
"The judge ruled the photo had strong probative value in the case."

How to use probative

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishHelping to prove something, usually used about evidence in a legal case.

When to use it

Mostly used in legal writing and courtroom contexts.

Common pairings
probative value probative evidence

Word forms

more probative comparative, most probative superlative

Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.
Test yourself on “probative” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The judge ruled the photo had strong _____ value in the case.

Etymology

From Latin probativus, "belonging to proof," from probare, "to test or prove."

Origin: Latin

Related words

Rhymes for probative

See all rhymes for probative →

Frequently asked questions

What does “probative” mean?

The word “probative” means serving to prove or provide evidence for something, especially in a legal context. In plain terms, helping to prove something, usually used about evidence in a legal case.

How do you pronounce “probative”?

“Probative” is pronounced PROH-buh-tihv (/ˈproʊ.bə.tɪv/ in IPA).

How do you use “probative” in a sentence?

Here is “probative” used in a sentence: “The judge ruled the photo had strong probative value in the case.”

What is the opposite of “probative”?

The opposite of “probative” — its antonyms — are disprobative and prejudicial.

What part of speech is “probative”?

“Probative” is an adjective.

Where does the word “probative” come from?

The word “probative” comes from Latin. From Latin probativus, "belonging to proof," from probare, "to test or prove.".

People also searched

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial