Accuse

Definition

Accuse is a verb that means to charge someone with a fault, crime, or offense, often formally. It implies stating or asserting that someone is responsible for wrongdoing or misbehavior.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əˈkjuːz/
• Respelling: uh-KYOOZ

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əˈkjuːz/
• Respelling: uh-KYOOZ

Etymology

The word "accuse" originates from the Latin term "accusare," which means "to call to account," from "ad-" (to) and "causa" (cause or lawsuit). It entered Middle English in the 14th century with a similar meaning of charging someone with a fault or offense.

Derivatives

• Accusation (noun)
• Accuser (noun)
• Accusative (adjective)
• Accusatory (adjective)
• Accused (noun/adjective)

Synonyms

• Blame
• Charge
• Allege

Antonyms

• Exonerate
• Defend
• Vindicate

Usage

The verb "accuse" is commonly used when attributing responsibility for a fault or crime to someone. For example, "They accused him of theft," or "She was accused unjustly by her colleagues."

Related Terms

• Allegation: A claim or assertion that someone has done something wrong, often without proof.
• Indictment: A formal charge or accusation of a serious crime.
• Prosecution: The institution and conduct of legal proceedings against someone.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To charge someone with a fault or offense: Implies formally declaring that a person is responsible for a wrongdoing.
  • Example: "The lawyer accused the witness of perjury."
• To assert or claim that someone is responsible for a crime: Often involves attributing blame in a legal or formal setting.
  • Example: "He was accused of corruption during the investigation."