Prosecute

Definition

Prosecute primarily means to institute legal proceedings against (someone) or to continue with a course of action with a view to its completion.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈprɑsɪˌkjuːt/
• Respelling: PRAHS-i-kyoot (with "PRAHS" as in "frost," "i" as a short "i" sound, and "kyoot" as in the "cute")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈprɒsɪˌkjuːt/
• Respelling: PROS-i-kyoot (with "PROS" as in the beginning of "prospect," "i" as a short "i" sound, and "kyoot" as in "cute")

In both dialects, "prosecute" is pronounced with the stress on the first syllable. The pronunciation remains consistent across both American and British English, clearly articulating the distinct syllables and focusing on the emphasis on "PRAHS" in American and "PROS" in British English.

Etymology

The term "prosecute" originates from the Latin "prosequi", meaning "to pursue, chase, or follow". It is comprised of "pro-", meaning "forward", and "sequi", meaning "follow".

Derivatives

• Prosecutor
• Prosecution
• Prosecutorial
• Prosecutrix (female prosecutor in formal terms)
• Prosecutable

Synonyms

• Sue
• Charge
• Indict

Antonyms

• Acquit
• Exonerate
• Defend

Usage

"Prosecute" is often used in a legal context to refer to the action of bringing legal proceedings against an individual or entity. It can also denote the act of continuing with determination in any undertaking.

Related Terms

• Criminal prosecution
• Prosecutor's office
• Prosecution witness

Detailed Definition

Verb

• To institute and conduct legal proceedings against (a person or organization).
• Example: The state decided to prosecute the company for environmental violations.

• To continue a course of action with a view to its completion.
• Example: The team was determined to prosecute their research despite the challenges.

• To follow up or pursue something to an end or with continued effort.
• Example: He vowed to prosecute his duties with utmost diligence.