Impeach Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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impeach

[ɪmˈpiːtʃ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

government

To charge (a public official) with improper conduct in office before a proper tribunal. This process is often used in politics to hold government officials accountable for their actions.

Synonyms

accuse, charge, indict.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
impeach

Use 'impeach' when referring to the formal process of charging a government official, like the President, with misconduct. This is a legal and political procedure.

  • The House of Representatives voted to impeach the President.
  • Impeaching a public official requires a thorough investigation.
accuse

Use 'accuse' when someone is claiming that another person has done something wrong or illegal. This word is informal and can be used in everyday situations.

  • She accused him of stealing her lunch.
  • They accused the manager of unfair treatment.
charge

Use 'charge' in a legal context when someone is formally accused of a crime by the authorities. This word is often used in official settings.

  • He was charged with robbery.
  • The suspect faced multiple charges after the investigation.
indict

Use 'indict' in a legal context when a grand jury formally accuses someone of a serious crime. This word is specific to the legal system and is more formal and technical.

  • The grand jury decided to indict the businessman on fraud allegations.
  • After months of investigation, they finally indicted the company executive.

Examples of usage

  • The opposition party attempted to impeach the president for alleged corruption.
  • The Prime Minister faced impeachment proceedings for violating the constitution.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'impeach'

The word 'impeach' originated from the Middle English word 'empechen', which came from the Anglo-French word 'empecher', meaning 'to impede'. The term evolved to its current meaning in the context of charging a public official with misconduct in office.


Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,309, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.