staðreynda

staðreynda is an Icelandic verb meaning to establish something as a fact; to substantiate or verify a claim. It denotes the act of demonstrating that a statement is true by presenting evidence, argument, or data. In usage, staðreynda is common in academic writing, journalism, and legal or investigative contexts, where conclusions are tied to demonstrable facts. The related noun staðreynd means fact or reality, and the verb may be used to indicate that a claim has been made into a fact through evidence.

Etymology and nuance: The verb is formed from the noun staðreynd (fact) and conveys turning an assertion into an established fact through proof or demonstration. It is related to, but stronger than, staðfesta (to confirm) and sannreyna or sanna (to prove true). The term thus emphasizes substantiation and evidentiary support in presenting conclusions.

Usage considerations: In Icelandic, staðreynda typically requires a direct object—the thing being established as a fact—and is often used with accompanying data, testimony, or reasoning. It frames conclusions as grounded in verifiable information rather than opinion, distinguishing it from mere assertion.