WordValeexonerate
to absolve from blame
to officially clear someone of blame or wrongdoing
In more detail
1. (verb) to prove that someone is not guilty of a crime or wrongdoing
2. (verb) to free someone from blame or responsibility
Examples
- 1. The new DNA evidence exonerated him after he spent 15 years in prison.
- 2. The investigation exonerated the manager from any involvement in the fraud.
How to use exonerate
Exonerate is used when clearing someone of accusations, guilt, or blame, typically in legal or formal contexts. It emphasizes proving innocence or removing responsibility rather than simply stating innocence. It is more formal than 'clear' and carries stronger connotations of official vindication than everyday synonyms.
Common phrases
- exonerate someone of a charge
- exonerate from blame
- exonerate from responsibility
- fully exonerated
- evidence exonerates
Synonyms
acquit · clear · vindicate · absolve · exculpate
Opposites
incriminate · implicate · condemn
Word family
exoneration (noun) · exonerating (adjective) · exonerated (adjective)
A common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse exonerate with exaggerate, or fail to use the proper preposition (exonerate from or of, not exonerate about).
Save this word in WordVale and it comes back for review right before you'd forget it — with pronunciation, real examples, and optional translations. One purchase, no subscription.
Get WordValeFREE 7-DAY TRIAL · iPHONE & iPAD