Exoneration: meaning, definitions and examples

When someone is cleared of blame or suspicion, often after a thorough investigation or re-examination of evidence.

• The new DNA evidence led to his exoneration after 20 years in prison
• The committee's findings resulted in the exoneration of the official accused of misconduct

In a legal context, when someone is formally declared not guilty of the charges against them in a court of law.

• The jury's verdict was an acquittal, and she walked free from the courtroom
• His acquittal was seen as a victory for justice

Typically used in religious contexts to indicate forgiveness of sins by a priest or religious authority.

• He sought absolution for his wrongdoings from the church
• The priest granted her absolution after she confessed her sins

When someone's actions or beliefs are proven to be correct or justified, often after being doubted or criticized.

• Her research provided vindication for the controversial theory
• He felt a sense of vindication when his predictions came true

Used when someone is officially cleared of blame or wrongdoing after an investigation, especially in legal or formal contexts.

• The new DNA evidence led to his exoneration
• The committee's report resulted in the exoneration of the accused

Commonly used in informal or everyday language to denote the act of proving someone is not guilty of a mistake or crime, especially outside of legal contexts.

• The videotape was crucial in clearing him of the accusations
• She was relieved after being cleared by the investigation

Often used in religious contexts when referring to the formal release from guilt, sin, or punishment by a religious authority.

• The priest granted her absolution after she confessed her sins
• He sought absolution for his wrongdoings

Used when someone is proven right or justified after being doubted or accused, emphasizing the restoration of their honor or reputation.

• The discovery of new evidence brought him great vindication
• She felt a sense of vindication when the truth was revealed

Used when someone is officially cleared from blame or suspicion, typically after being formally charged or investigated.

• After months of investigation, the evidence led to his exoneration
• The exoneration of the falsely accused man brought him a sense of relief

Used in a legal context to indicate that someone has been found not guilty in a court of law, following a trial.

• The jury's decision led to his acquittal
• The acquittal meant he could finally move on with his life

Often used in a religious sense to mean being freed from guilt or sin, typically granted by a priest or religious leader.

• The priest granted him absolution after he confessed his sins
• She sought absolution for her past mistakes

Used to indicate that someone's actions or beliefs have been proven to be correct after having been doubted or criticized.

• Her research provided vindication for the theory that many had dismissed
• Winning the case was a vindication of his efforts