establish
The company plans to establish a new branch in Tokyo.
The company intends to create a new office in Tokyo.
to set up or create something that is meant to last for a long time
They established a charity to help homeless people.
They created a charity organization to support those without homes.
The university was established in 1850.
The university was founded in 1850 and has existed since then.
Often used for institutions, relationships, or systems that require permanence.
to prove or show something to be true or valid
The DNA evidence established the suspect's guilt.
The DNA evidence proved the suspect was guilty.
The contract establishes the terms of our agreement.
The contract legally confirms the conditions we agreed upon.
Common in legal, scientific, or academic contexts to confirm facts.
to introduce someone formally into a new role or position
The president will establish the new CEO during the ceremony.
The president will officially introduce the new CEO at the event.
Used for official introductions or inaugurations.
Collocations
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Use with 'as' for roles
When introducing someone to a role, use 'establish someone as [role]'. Example: 'She established herself as a leader in the field.'
Gold Rule
Avoid informal contexts
Do not use 'establish' for casual or temporary situations. Instead, use 'set up' or 'create'. Example: 'Let's set up a meeting.' (not 'establish a meeting')
Prefer 'found' for organizations
For starting organizations like companies or schools, 'found' is more common. Example: 'Harvard was founded in 1636.'
Word Origin
From Middle English *establissen*, from Old French *establir*, from Latin *stabilire* (to make stable), from *stabilis* (stable, firm). Related to *stable* and *state*.
Usage Notes
Commonly used in formal contexts, especially for institutions, relationships, or legal facts. Avoid using it for temporary or informal setups.