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Forensically: meaning, definitions and examples

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forensically

 

[fəˈrɛn.zɪ.kli ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

legal investigation

Forensically refers to methods and techniques related to the collection and analysis of evidence in criminal investigations and legal proceedings. This term usually implies a scientific approach to solving crimes, often incorporating various disciplines like biology, chemistry, and anthropology. In forensic science, evidence is meticulously gathered and examined to establish the facts of a case. The insights gained from forensic analysis can be critical in court, helping to establish guilt or innocence.

Synonyms

analytically, investigatively, scientifically.

Examples of usage

  • The evidence was forensically analyzed to match the suspect's DNA.
  • Forensically trained professionals examined the crime scene for clues.
  • The report provided forensically relevant details about the weapon used.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'forensis,' meaning 'of the forum,' where ancient Roman legal cases were presented and debated.
  • It originally referred to the legal aspects of evidence, but now includes a variety of scientific methods.

Criminal Science

  • Forensic science is a broad field that includes DNA analysis, toxicology, and ballistics to solve crimes.
  • Forensic investigators often work with law enforcement to piece together evidence from crime scenes.

Pop Culture

  • TV shows like 'CSI' and 'Bones' have popularized forensic science, often depicting dramatic crime scene investigations.
  • The character of Sherlock Holmes, created by Arthur Conan Doyle, is one of the earliest portrayals of a forensic detective.

Psychology

  • Forensic psychology blends psychology and the legal system, studying the behavior and motives of criminals.
  • Criminal profiling is a technique used by forensic psychologists to understand the characteristics of offenders.

Technology

  • Advancements in technology have greatly enhanced forensic methods, such as the use of 3D imaging in crime scene reconstruction.
  • Digital forensics has emerged as a field to investigate crimes involving computers and electronic data.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,816, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.