Bail: meaning, definitions and examples
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bail
[beɪl ]
Definitions
court
The temporary release of an accused person awaiting trial, sometimes on condition that a sum of money is lodged to guarantee their appearance in court.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| bail |
Used in legal situations when someone is temporarily released from jail, usually by paying money. Often seen in criminal cases.
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Examples of usage
- The judge set bail at $10,000.
- If you cannot afford bail, you may be held in jail until your trial.
- They posted bail and were released from custody.
law
To release or secure the release of a prisoner on payment of bail.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| bail |
This word is generally used in legal settings when someone pays money to get someone out of jail while they wait for their trial. It often creates an implication that the person might have committed a crime.
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| release |
Used in various contexts to indicate letting something or someone go. It can be used formally and informally, and applies to objects, people, emotions, etc.
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| liberate |
This word often carries historical, political, or military undertones. It's used when freeing people from oppressive situations or regimes. The term suggests a significant change towards freedom.
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| free |
Use 'free' when referring to releasing someone or something from physical or metaphorical constraints. Its usage is quite broad and common in everyday language.
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Examples of usage
- They decided to bail him out of jail.
- The lawyer bailed the client out quickly.
- He bailed himself out of prison.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word originates from the Old French term 'baillier', meaning 'to deliver or to give', reflecting its role in freeing someone.
- In Middle English, the term evolved to include the concept of letting someone go on their own accord.
Legal System
- Bail is a critical component of the justice system, allowing individuals to stay out of jail until their trial, preserving their rights.
- The amount of bail can vary significantly based on the nature of the crime and the perceived risk of the individual fleeing.
Cultural Representation
- Bail has often been portrayed in movies and TV shows, showcasing dramatic situations where characters must raise funds to secure their freedom.
- The concept has sparked discussions in real life, particularly about fairness in the legal system for those who can pay versus those who cannot.
Psychology
- The decision to grant bail can influence a person's mental health, as staying in jail can cause anxiety and depression.
- Research indicates that those out on bail are more likely to prepare for their case actively than those who remain incarcerated.
Finance
- In financial contexts, the term 'bailout' is a play on this concept, referring to financial assistance given to a failing entity, mirroring the support system of bail.
- Bailing someone out can be a significant financial commitment, often requiring collateral or full payment upfront.
Translations
Translations of the word "bail" in other languages:
🇵🇹 caução
🇮🇳 जमानत
🇩🇪 Kaution
🇮🇩 jaminan
🇺🇦 застава
🇵🇱 kaucja
🇯🇵 保釈
🇫🇷 caution
🇪🇸 fianza
🇹🇷 kefalet
🇰🇷 보석
🇸🇦 كفالة
🇨🇿 kauce
🇸🇰 kaucia
🇨🇳 保释
🇸🇮 varščina
🇮🇸 trygging
🇰🇿 кепілдік
🇬🇪 გირაო
🇦🇿 zəmanət
🇲🇽 fianza