Exculpated: meaning, definitions and examples
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exculpated
[ˈɛkskəlˌpeɪtɪd ]
Definition
legal context
To exculpate means to clear someone from blame or fault. It is often used in legal situations where an individual is proven innocent of a crime or accusation. This term comes from the idea of removing blame or guilt from a person. In a broader sense, exculpation can refer to any process of absolving someone from responsibility or wrongdoing.
Synonyms
absolve, clear, exonerate, vindicate.
Examples of usage
- The evidence presented served to exculpate the defendant.
- She was exculpated after the investigation revealed her innocence.
- The new witness helped to exculpate him from the charges.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from the Latin 'exculpare', meaning 'to clear from blame'.
- It combines 'ex-', meaning 'out of', and 'culpa', meaning 'fault' or 'blame'.
- Similar forms appear in many languages, such as 'excusar' in Spanish, showing its broad roots.
Legal Context
- In legal terms, exculpation often involves providing evidence that points to a person's innocence.
- Exculpatory evidence is crucial in trials, as it can dramatically change the outcome for the defendant.
- The concept is tied to the principle of 'innocent until proven guilty', a fundamental part of many justice systems.
Psychology
- People often seek to exculpate themselves from mistakes to maintain their self-esteem and social standing.
- The process of exculpation can lead to cognitive dissonance, especially when guilt is felt despite being innocent.
- In some cases, the desire to exculpate oneself can result in defensive behavior, impacting personal relationships.
Literature
- Many literary works explore themes of exculpation, focusing on characters seeking redemption or forgiveness.
- The quest for exculpation can serve as a powerful narrative arc, often leading to character growth and moral questioning.
- Notable stories often depict characters who are wrongfully accused, emphasizing society's flaws in justice.
Pop Culture
- In movies, protagonists frequently find themselves in scenarios where they must exculpate themselves, creating tension and engagement.
- Television dramas thrive on exculpation plots, where the main character fights against false accusations.
- The frequent occurrence of exculpation in pop culture reflects societal fascinations with justice and accountability.
Translations
Translations of the word "exculpated" in other languages:
🇵🇹 exculpado
🇮🇳 निर्दोष ठहराना
🇩🇪 entlastet
🇮🇩 membebaskan
🇺🇦 виправдовувати
🇵🇱 uniewinniony
🇯🇵 無罪を証明する
🇫🇷 exculpé
🇪🇸 exculpado
🇹🇷 aklanmış
🇰🇷 무죄를 입증하다
🇸🇦 تبرئة
🇨🇿 osvobozený
🇸🇰 oslobodený
🇨🇳 免除罪责
🇸🇮 oproščen
🇮🇸 afsakaður
🇰🇿 кінәдан босату
🇬🇪 გამართლებული
🇦🇿 təqsirindən azad olunmuş
🇲🇽 exculpado