Definition

1. Verb:
   • To question someone closely and in detail, especially a witness in a legal proceeding who has already been questioned by the opposing side. This involves asking probing, often challenging, questions to test the truth, accuracy, or consistency of previous testimony.

Usage

• The verb "cross question" is used primarily in formal or legal contexts. It describes the action of interrogating a witness after they have been questioned by the other party in a trial or hearing. Its purpose is to challenge or clarify the witness's statements.

Examples

• Verb:
  • The prosecutor will cross question the defense's key witness tomorrow.
  • During the trial, the defense attorney cross questioned the police officer about the evidence.
  • After the direct examination, the other side has the right to cross question the witness.

Advanced Usage

• "To be cross questioned": To be subjected to close, challenging questioning.
  • The expert witness was thoroughly cross questioned for over two hours.

Variants and Related Words

• Cross-examination (n): The act or process of cross questioning a witness.
  • The cross-examination revealed inconsistencies in his story.
• Cross-examine (v): A more common synonym for "cross question".
  • The lawyer will cross-examine the witness.

Synonyms

• Interrogate: To ask questions formally and systematically.
• Grill (informal): To question intensely and persistently.

Related Phrases

• Subject to cross questioning: To be made to undergo cross questioning.
  • The new evidence meant the witness could be subject to cross questioning again.

Verb

1. question closely, or question a witness that has already been questioned by the opposing side
   • The witness was cross-examined by the defense