Concept dictionary
Verification
Verification is checking a claim or result against evidence that can actually settle it: a primary source, a system of record, direct observation, an approved standard, or a knowledgeable human reviewer. The higher the cost of being wrong, the more that evidence needs to be independent of whatever produced the claim — and at that point one knowledgeable person's say-so may not be enough on its own.
- Review state
- Reviewed in POC
- Freshness
- Current
- Version
- 3
Also called
- verification
Remember it this wayMatch the check to the claim—and to the cost of being wrong.
In plain language
Verification means checking whether an answer holds up when you compare it with a trustworthy source or another appropriate form of evidence.
Why it matters
A polished answer can still be wrong, incomplete, stale, or unsuitable.
The amount and type of verification should match the claim and the consequences of being wrong.
Example
Before using a chatbot's statement about a current event time or latest event notice, check the original event notice rather than relying on the chatbot's wording.
Common misconception
Asking another chatbot or AI search engine the same question is not independent verification. The second answer may repeat the same error or rely on similar sources.
Related terms
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