Definition

1. Verb (Transitive):
   • To free (someone) from a criminal charge by a verdict of not guilty: To declare formally that a person is not guilty of the crime they were accused of.
   • To conduct (oneself) or behave in a specified manner: To perform or carry oneself in a particular way, especially in a formal or challenging situation.

Examples of Usage

• Verb (Transitive - Legal sense):

  • The jury voted to acquit the defendant due to lack of evidence.
  • He was acquitted of all charges after a lengthy trial.

• Verb (Transitive - Behavioral sense, with reflexive pronoun):

  • She acquitted herself admirably during the crisis.
  • The young soldier acquitted himself with great courage in his first battle.

Advanced Usage

• "to acquit oneself of (a duty, promise, or task)": To discharge or fulfill a formal responsibility or obligation.
  • He finally acquitted himself of the debt he owed his friend.
  • She acquitted herself of her promise to organize the event.

Variants and Related Words

• Acquittal (n): A judgment that a person is not guilty of the crime with which they have been charged.
  • The case ended in an acquittal.

Synonyms

• Exonerate: To absolve from blame for a fault or wrongdoing, especially after due consideration of the case.
• Absolve: To set or declare (someone) free from blame, guilt, or responsibility.
• Clear: To declare (someone) innocent; to free from accusation or blame.
• Vindicate: To clear (someone) of blame or suspicion.

Antonyms

• Convict: To declare (someone) guilty of a criminal offense by the verdict of a jury or the decision of a judge.
• Condemn: To express complete disapproval of, typically in public; to sentence to a punishment.

Related Phrases and Idioms

• "To acquit oneself well/honorably/with distinction": To perform one's role or duties in an admirable or excellent manner.
  • Despite the pressure, the new manager acquitted herself very well.
• "To acquit oneself poorly/badly": To perform one's role or duties in an unsatisfactory manner.
  • He was nervous and acquitted himself poorly during the presentation.

Verb

1. behave in a certain manner
   • She carried herself well
   • he bore himself with dignity
   • They conducted themselves well during these difficult times
2. pronounce not guilty of criminal charges
   • The suspect was cleared of the murder charges