Definition
In ATC communications, a request for confirmation of information (for example, an assigned altitude, heading, frequency, or clearance item). The controller is asking the pilot, or another controller, to check and confirm that a specific piece of information is correct.
Plain English
When ATC says 'verify,' they want you to double-check something and tell them whether it is right. They are not asking you to do anything with the aircraft — they are asking you to confirm a piece of information.
Context Anchor
Commonly heard in radio communication when air traffic control or a pilot wants information checked and confirmed.
Derivation
From Latin verus meaning 'true,' through Medieval Latin verificare, 'to make true' or 'prove true.' In ATC use it carries that same flavor: confirm that what was said or assigned is in fact correct.
Why Pilots Care
Prevents miscommunication on critical items like altitudes, routes, or fuel states that directly affect safety.
Intuition Check
Verify does not mean “repeat something automatically.” It means check it against what is actually correct, then confirm it.
Example Sentence 1
Center called and said, 'November Three Four Alpha, verify assigned altitude 8,000,' so the pilot checked the altimeter and replied, 'Affirmative, maintaining 8,000.'
Example Sentence 2
During the preflight, the pilot verified the oil level matched the dipstick marking.