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Acquit: meaning, definitions and examples

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acquit

 

[əˈkwɪt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

in a legal context

To free (someone) from a criminal charge by a verdict of not guilty. To conduct oneself or perform in a specified way, especially well or in a particular way.

Synonyms

absolve, clear, exonerate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
acquit

Used in a legal setting, when a person is declared not guilty of a crime. Often seen in court judgments.

  • The jury decided to acquit the defendant of all charges
absolve

Used in both legal and moral contexts. It means to free someone from blame or guilt.

  • The priest can absolve you of your sins during confession
clear

Used generally to indicate freedom from blame or suspicion. Can apply to personal, professional, or general situations.

  • The evidence helped to clear her name
exonerate

Used in both legal and formal contexts. It means freeing someone from blame, often related to official or formal accusations.

  • New evidence exonerated the man after 20 years in prison

Examples of usage

  • He was acquitted of all the charges.
  • She acquitted herself admirably in the crisis.
  • The team acquitted themselves well in the tournament.
Context #2 | Verb

in a non-legal context

To behave or perform in a specified way.

Synonyms

conduct, perform.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
acquit

This term is commonly used in legal settings. It means to declare someone not guilty of criminal charges. It is often used in courtrooms and discussions about legal decisions.

  • The jury decided to acquit the defendant of all charges.
  • After a lengthy trial, the judge acquitted her.
conduct

This word is frequently used in formal situations to describe the action of managing or directing a particular activity. It can also mean to behave in a certain manner, especially in a regulated setting.

  • The scientist will conduct experiments in the new laboratory.
  • He was praised for the way he conducted himself during the crisis.
perform

This term is widely used in various contexts to mean carrying out an action or task. It is often associated with displaying one's skills, either in entertainment, work, or academic settings.

  • The actor will perform his new play next week.
  • She performed exceptionally well on the exam.

Examples of usage

  • He acquitted himself well in the interview.
  • She acquitted herself with grace under pressure.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term originates from the Latin 'acquitare', meaning 'to free from a charge'.
  • Originally, 'acquit' was linked to the meaning of paying off a debt, as in being clear of an obligation.
  • The word has evolved in legal contexts to specifically mean exoneration from accusations.

Legal System

  • In a jury trial, a unanimous vote is often required to acquit a defendant, ensuring all jurors agree.
  • An acquittal does not always imply innocence; it means the charges were not proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
  • In some legal systems, an acquitted person can still face civil repercussions, separate from criminal charges.

Pop Culture

  • Films often dramatize court cases where a surprising acquittal leads to public debate and controversy.
  • High-profile acquittals, such as those in celebrity trials, can influence public perception of justice and fairness.
  • Television shows frequently explore themes of wrongful accusation, where the plot revolves around achieving an acquittal.

Psychology

  • The emotional aftermath of acquittal can be complex, often including relief but also societal stigma.
  • Research indicates that individuals acquitted may struggle with identity and social acceptance post-trial.
  • Victims and the accused both experience psychological effects from the trial process, irrespective of the verdict.

History

  • Throughout history, notable acquittals have sparked movements for legal reform and greater protection of rights.
  • The concept of acquittal has roots tracing back to ancient civilizations, where rulings were made by elders or leaders.
  • Famous historical trials, such as those of political leaders, often ended in acquittals that shaped national discourse.

Translations

Translations of the word "acquit" in other languages:

🇵🇹 absolver

🇮🇳 बरी करना

🇩🇪 freisprechen

🇮🇩 membebaskan

🇺🇦 виправдати

🇵🇱 uniewinnić

🇯🇵 無罪にする

🇫🇷 acquitter

🇪🇸 absolver

🇹🇷 beraat ettirmek

🇰🇷 무죄로 하다

🇸🇦 تبرئة

🇨🇿 zprostit viny

🇸🇰 oslobodiť

🇨🇳 无罪释放

🇸🇮 oprostiti

🇮🇸 sýkna

🇰🇿 ақтау

🇬🇪 გათავისუფლება

🇦🇿 azad etmək

🇲🇽 absolver

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,732, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.