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Tmnt53 Posted 13 years ago
Grammar

demonstrate/prove

Question: Mobile phones emit microwave radio emissions. Researchers are questioning whether exposure to these radio
waves might lead to brain cancer. So far, the data are not conclusive. The scientific evidence does not enable us to say with certainly that mobile phones are categorically safe. On the other hand,
current research has not yet ____ clear adverse effect associated with the prolonged use of mobile phones.
To fill in the gap, which is correct: prove or demonstrate?

I thought it's 'demonstrate', but the correct answer the test gives is 'prove'. After checking the Oxford dictionary, I don't know which of them is more suitable. Please tell me.
  

Top answer

has not yet proved

  • has not yet proved
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7 Answers
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Tell me why please. They seems to be synonyms.
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tmnt53Tell me why please. They seems to be synonyms.
I agree. They have the same meaning.
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So the question above is mistaken?
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tmnt53...So is the question above mistaken? That is correct question grammar.
It's not a good question because it has two possible answers.
And it's also faulty in that the present simple versions of the two choices are not correct.
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I agree that either demonstrated or proved could be used here.
has not yet demonstrated... I would take to mean has not yet shown strong evidence for...
has not yet proved... I would take to mean has not yet established beyond doubt...
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Thanks. Indeed, the choices are 'demonstrated' and 'proved', but I myself changed them.

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