Definition

A decision that supports or confirms a previous decision made by a lower court or organization. It can also refer to the act of stating something is true or valid.

Example

The court's affirmance of the lower court's ruling was a significant victory for the plaintiff.

Conversation

Did you hear about the recent court case decision?

Yeah, I did! They went for an affirmance on that one.

I wonder how often they choose to give an affirmance instead of a reversal.

It seems to depend on the evidence; if it's solid, they usually uphold it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Affirmance is formed from "affirmare" (meaning to make firm or strengthen) and the suffix "-ance" (indicating a state or quality). The word refers to the state of affirming or confirming something.

Memory Tip

Think of 'making firm' ('affirmare') to remember that 'affirmance' means the state of confirming or strengthening something.

Visually Confused Words