direct evidence

American  

noun

1. evidence of a witness who testifies to the truth of the fact to be proved (contrasted with circumstantial evidence).

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direct evidence British  

noun

1. law evidence, usually the testimony of a witness, directly relating to the fact in dispute Compare circumstantial evidence

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Example Sentences

The results provide direct evidence that the way atoms are organized inside a material can have a measurable influence on its electronic characteristics.

From Science Daily • Jun. 6, 2026

So far, there is no direct evidence that removing meat advertising from public spaces leads to a shift toward more plant-based societies.

From BBC • May 3, 2026

This strong link between strain and electronic order provides direct evidence that subtle lattice distortions play a crucial role in shaping how these patterns form.

From Science Daily • Apr. 28, 2026

And no fossil has yet been found with stomach contents that would offer direct evidence of what they were dining on.

From BBC • Apr. 23, 2026

Though we can learn much about the Fox sisters’ actions from their believers and detractors, we have little direct evidence for what Maggie or Kate truly thought or felt about their lives.

From "American Spirits" by Barb Rosenstock