Cross-examine Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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cross-examine
[[ˈkrɔːs-ɪɡˈzæmɪn] ]
Definition
court process
To question a witness called by the opposing party in a trial or hearing, typically to test the truth or credibility of the witness's testimony.
Synonyms
grill, interrogate, query, question.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| cross-examine |
Typically used in legal settings when a lawyer asks questions to a witness of the opposing party to discredit their testimony or gather more information.
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| question |
A general term used in both formal and informal settings when someone wants to ask about something to gain information or clarify something.
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| interrogate |
Used when someone, typically law enforcement or military personnel, questions another person thoroughly, often in a forceful or aggressive way.
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| grill |
Informally used when someone is subjected to intense questioning, often in a harsh or aggressive manner.
|
| query |
Used in more formal or polite interactions when someone asks a question to get information, often in written form.
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Examples of usage
- During the trial, the defense attorney had the opportunity to cross-examine the prosecution's key witness.
- The judge allowed the prosecutor to cross-examine the defendant about his alibi.
- The defense lawyer cross-examined the expert witness to challenge the validity of his analysis.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Legal Context
- In a courtroom, a lawyer can cross-examine a witness after they have given their direct testimony, aiming to highlight inconsistencies.
- This technique is crucial for uncovering the truth and ensuring a fair trial, as it allows the opposing side to question the witness's credibility.
Pop Culture
- Many movies and TV shows, like legal dramas, feature intense cross-examinations that can turn the tide of a trial dramatically.
- One famous line from 'To Kill a Mockingbird' showcases the dramatic impact of cross-examination when the character Atticus Finch interrogates a witness.
Psychology
- Cross-examination can reveal not just lies but also the stress and anxiety a person faces when under pressure, influencing their responses.
- Research shows that highly structured questioning can lead to more accurate answers, underscoring the effectiveness of this approach.
Education
- Teaching students how to cross-examine sources helps develop critical thinking skills, as they learn to analyze information for validity.
- Debate and mock trial programs in schools often incorporate cross-examination techniques to prepare students for real-life problem-solving.
Origin of 'cross-examine'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'examinare', which means 'to weigh' or 'to consider', reflecting the idea of weighing evidence.
- Cross-examination is a key part of the legal process and has roots in medieval England, where it was developed to challenge witnesses.
The term 'cross-examine' originated in the legal field, dating back to the 18th century. It comes from the combination of 'cross,' meaning to intersect or oppose, and 'examine,' referring to questioning or investigating. The practice of cross-examining witnesses has long been a fundamental aspect of adversarial legal systems, aimed at challenging the credibility and accuracy of testimony.