Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Capable of being accused of misconduct: "impeachable" describes an action or behavior that is severe enough to warrant formal charges of wrongdoing, especially against a public official.
   • Open to challenge or discredit: In a broader sense, it can refer to something that is questionable or subject to criticism.

Usage Examples

• Capable of being accused of misconduct:
  • The president's actions were considered impeachable by the committee. (The behavior was serious enough to justify impeachment proceedings.)
• Open to challenge or discredit:
  • The witness's testimony was impeachable due to inconsistencies. (The testimony could be questioned or discredited.)

Advanced Usage

• "impeachable offense": a specific act that meets the constitutional or legal standard for impeachment.
  • High crimes and misdemeanors are typically considered impeachable offenses. (These are the types of actions that can lead to removal from office.)

Variants and Related Words

• Impeach (verb): to charge a public official with misconduct.
  • The legislature voted to impeach the governor. (They formally accused him of wrongdoing.)
• Impeachment (noun): the process of bringing charges against a public official.
  • The impeachment of the judge lasted several months. (The formal accusation and trial process.)

Synonyms

• Accusable: able to be accused of wrongdoing.
• Culpable: deserving blame or censure.
• Questionable: open to doubt or challenge.

Related Idioms

• "Open to impeachment": vulnerable to being formally accused of misconduct.
  • Any violation of the oath of office leaves an official open to impeachment. (They risk being charged with wrongdoing.)