Prosecute: meaning, definitions and examples

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prosecute

[ ˈprɒsɪkjuːt ]

^{Context #1}

legal

To bring a criminal action against (someone) in a court of law. To institute legal proceedings in respect of (a claim or offence). To pursue (a course of action).

Synonyms

accuse, charge, sue

Examples of usage

He was prosecuted for fraud.
They decided to prosecute the case.
The government will prosecute any violations of the law.

^{Context #2}

general

To continue with (a course of action) with a view to its completion.

Synonyms

carry on, continue, pursue

Examples of usage

She is determined to prosecute the project until the end.
I will prosecute my studies with diligence.

Translations

Translations of the word "prosecute" in other languages:

🇵🇹 processar

🇮🇳 अभियोजन करना

🇩🇪 verfolgen

🇮🇩 menuntut

🇺🇦 переслідувати

🇵🇱 ścigać

🇯🇵 起訴する

🇫🇷 poursuivre

🇪🇸 procesar

🇹🇷 dava açmak

🇰🇷 기소하다

🇸🇦 مقاضاة

🇨🇿 stíhat

🇸🇰 stíhať

🇨🇳 起诉

🇸🇮 kazensko preganjati

🇮🇸 ákæra

🇰🇿 қылмыстық іс қозғау

🇬🇪 სასამართლო დევნა

🇦🇿 məhkəmə təqibi

🇲🇽 procesar

Word origin

The word 'prosecute' originated from the Latin word 'prosequi' which means 'to pursue, accompany, or attend'. It entered the English language in the late 16th century. Originally, it had a broader meaning of 'to follow or pursue a course.' Over time, its legal sense became more prominent, particularly in relation to criminal proceedings.