Prosecute - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
To prosecute means to formally accuse someone of a crime and bring them to trial in a court of law. It involves presenting evidence to prove their guilt.
Definition:
To initiate legal proceedings against someone for a criminal offense or wrongdoing.
Synonyms:
sue, charge, indict, arraign
Part of Speech:
verb
Antonyms:
defend, exonerate
Common Collocations:
prosecute a case, prosecute criminals, prosecute vigorously
Derivatives:
prosecution, prosecutor, prosecutorial
Usage Tips:
Use "prosecute" when referring to legal action; avoid in casual contexts unrelated to law.
Common Phrases:
bring to justice, face prosecution, under prosecution
Etymology:
From Latin "prosecutus," past participle of "prosequi," meaning to pursue or follow up.
Examples:
- 1. The lawyer will prosecute the case in court next week.
- 2. The state decided not to prosecute due to lack of evidence.
- 3. He was prosecuted for fraud after the investigation concluded.
- 4. Authorities must prosecute those who break the law fairly and justly.