untermauert

Untermauert is the past participle and a finite form of the German verb untermauern, meaning to substantiate or underpin a claim by providing evidence, arguments, or data. In formal writing, it describes how a statement or thesis has been reinforced by solid proof, making it more credible or durable.

Etymology and sense: The verb combines unter- (under, beneath) with mauern (to wall up). Metaphorically, to underbuild a claim with evidence is to fortify its foundation, giving the argument stability and persuasiveness. The term is commonly used in academic, scientific, and journalistic contexts.

Usage and examples: Untermauert is typically used with objects such as Belege (evidence), Daten (data), Ergebnisse (results), Studien (studies), or Argumente (arguments). Examples include: Die Ergebnisse der Studie untermauern die Hypothese. Die Belege untermauern die Behauptung. In passive constructions one can say: Die These ist durch neue Daten untermauert worden. While there are synonyms like belegen or begründen, untermauern emphasizes strengthening a claim with substantive support rather than merely illustrating it.

Notes: Untermauern is generally formal and common in expert or public-discourse contexts. It contrasts with terms indicating refutation or weakness, such as entkräften or widersprechen. Related expressions include „mit Belegen untermauern“ and „durch Daten untermauert sein.“