Accused Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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accused
[əˈkjuːzd ]
Definitions
legal
A person or group of people who are charged with or on trial for a crime.
Synonyms
alleged perpetrator, defendant, suspect.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| accused |
Used when someone has been charged with a crime but not yet found guilty in a court of law.
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| defendant |
Used in a legal setting to refer to a person who is being sued or accused of a crime in a court of law.
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| suspect |
Used to describe someone who is thought to have committed a crime but has not yet been formally charged.
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Examples of usage
- The accused pleaded not guilty in court.
- The accused was released on bail until the trial.
general
To charge someone with an offense or crime.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| accused |
Used in legal or formal settings to indicate someone who has been charged with a crime but has not yet been proven guilty.
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| charge |
Used in legal contexts to formally accuse someone of a crime. It involves a formal statement of accusation and often leads to a court case.
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| allege |
Typically used when asserting something as a fact without providing proof. It is often employed in legal, journalistic, or formal contexts.
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| blame |
Used in everyday conversation to indicate assigning responsibility for a fault or wrong. It can be informal and often carries a negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- The police accused him of theft.
- She was accused of cheating on the exam.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Legal System
- In a trial, the accused has the right to defend themselves against the charges.
- The presumption of innocence is a key principle, meaning the accused is considered innocent until proven guilty.
- Accused individuals may face various types of charges, from civil suit allegations to serious criminal offenses.
Psychology
- Being accused can lead to psychological stress, including anxiety and feelings of injustice.
- Research suggests innocent people accused of wrongdoing often experience feelings of betrayal and isolation.
- The label of 'accused' can have lasting effects on one's identity and social standing, even if cleared of charges.
Pop Culture
- The theme of being wrongly accused is common in movies and TV shows, reflecting societal fears of injustice.
- Famous literary works often explore the plight of the accused, showcasing their struggles and the quest for truth.
Media
- Accusations made in the media can have powerful repercussions, influencing public opinion before a trial.
- Sensationalized accusations can lead to 'trial by media', where an individual's reputation is damaged before legal proceedings.
Origin of 'accused'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'accusare', meaning 'to call to account' or 'to charge'.
- It has been used in English since the late 14th century, primarily in legal contexts.
The word 'accused' originates from the Latin word 'accusare', which means 'to call to account'. It has been used in legal contexts for centuries, referring to individuals who have been formally charged with a crime and are undergoing a trial process. The concept of the accused and the right to a fair trial are fundamental principles of justice systems around the world.
See also: accusable, accusation, accusations, accusatory, accuser.