WordValeindict
to formally charge with a serious crime
In more detail
1. (verb) to officially charge someone with a crime in a court of law
2. (verb) to show or suggest that someone or something is guilty or responsible for something bad
Examples
- 1. The grand jury voted to indict the suspect for murder.
- 2. The report indicts poor management for the company's failure.
How to use indict
Indict is primarily a legal term meaning to formally charge someone with a crime, typically through a grand jury or similar process. Its broader sense means to demonstrate culpability or suggest wrongdoing, often used metaphorically to criticize systems, policies, or institutions rather than individuals. This second sense is slightly more formal and literary than simple accusation.
Common phrases
- indict someone for a crime
- indict on charges of
- indicted on multiple counts
- formally indicted
- indict for corruption
Synonyms
charge · accuse · incriminate · implicate · prosecute
Opposites
acquit · exonerate · vindicate
Word family
indictment (noun) · indicted (adjective) · indictable (adjective)
A common mistake
Learners often confuse indict with convict; to indict is to charge formally, while to convict is to find guilty after trial.
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