indict
in-DITE
/ɪnˈdaɪt/
To formally accuse of or charge with a serious crime.
Indict is a specific legal step, usually involving a grand jury. It doesn't mean the person is guilty, only that there is enough evidence to hold a trial.
The story behind the word. The 'c' in 'indict' was added by scholars who wanted the word to look more like its Latin root 'dictare'. However, the pronunciation stayed true to the French 'enditer', which is why we say 'in-dite' instead of 'in-dict'.
Word relationships
- charge: Charge is a general term; indict is the specific formal process used for serious crimes.
- exonerate: To exonerate is to clear of charges, while to indict is to bring them.
Commonly confused with
- indite: Indite (pronounced the same) means to write or compose, like a poem. Indict is the legal charge.
Word family
- indictment (noun): A formal charge or accusation of a serious crime.
Collocations
- indict on charges
- formally indict
- indict for murder
Example sentences
- "The grand jury voted to indict the executive on three counts of fraud." Federal Law
- "It is rare for a sitting official to be indicted for actions taken while in office." Historical Context
Memory hook
If you are indicted, you are 'In-Dite' (in-debt) to the court until you prove your innocence. Formally charged.
When not to use
Do not use for minor social accusations; it is strictly for formal, serious legal charges.
Fun facts
- The silent 'c' in indict is one of the most common spelling traps in the English language.
Related words
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