WordValevindicate
to clear of blame; to prove right
In more detail
1. (verb) to prove that someone was right or that they did not do something wrong
2. (verb) to show that an idea or belief was correct
Examples
- 1. The evidence vindicated him; he was innocent all along.
- 2. Recent studies have vindicated the scientist's controversial theory.
How to use vindicate
Vindicate means to clear someone of blame or to prove that a belief or decision was justified, often after initial doubt or accusation. It carries the sense of removing doubt or suspicion and is commonly used in legal, personal, and intellectual contexts. It differs from justify in that vindicate often implies clearing someone's name rather than merely providing reasons for an action.
Common phrases
- vindicate oneself
- vindicate someone's honor
- vindicate a claim
- completely vindicated
- vindicate one's faith in
Synonyms
exonerate · justify · clear · absolve · validate
Opposites
condemn · incriminate · discredit
Word family
vindication (noun) · vindicatory (adjective) · vindicator (noun)
A common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse vindicate with vindictive (meaning vengeful); they are entirely different words with no semantic overlap.
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