establish

/ɪˈstæblɪʃ/

Reviewed on

Type

Verb

Meaning

  1. To set up or found an organization, system, or business on a firm basis.

    • The company established a regional office in Chicago last year.

    • Will they establish a permanent scholarship fund for students?

  2. To prove or determine something beyond doubt using evidence.

    • Investigators established that the fire started in the basement.

    • The prosecution could not establish a clear motive during the trial.

  3. To build or achieve a secure reputation, position, or relationship.

    • She established herself as an authority on renewable energy early in her career.

    • Has the new director established good communication with the staff?

How it's used

This means “find out what is true”

  • establish the facts

“establish them.”

The police are still trying to establish the facts of the case.

Collocations

  • establish a relationship
  • establish credentials
  • establish a committee
  • establish a routine
  • establish a baseline

Synonyms

Antonyms