indictable

/in'daitəbl/

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Word: Indictable

Part of Speech: Adjective

Definition: The word "indictable" refers to something that can lead to a formal accusation or charge in a court of law. It is often used in legal contexts to describe offenses that are serious enough to be formally charged by a grand jury.

Usage Instructions:

• Use "indictable" when discussing serious crimes that are subject to formal legal proceedings.
• It is often used in legal discussions, reports, or when talking about criminal justice.

Example:

• "The suspect was arrested for an indictable offense, meaning the case could go to trial."

Advanced Usage:

• In legal contexts, "indictable" is often contrasted with "summary" offenses, which are less serious and can be handled more quickly in court.

Word Variants:

• Indict (verb): To formally accuse someone of a crime.
  • Example: "The grand jury decided to indict the businessman for fraud."
• Indictment (noun): A formal charge or accusation of a serious crime.
  • Example: "The indictment included several counts of theft."

Different Meaning:

While "indictable" specifically refers to crimes that can be formally charged, it does not imply guilt; it simply indicates the potential for legal action.

Synonyms:

• Chargeable (though this can be broader)
• Prosecutable
• Criminal (in some contexts)

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

While "indictable" does not have specific idioms or phrasal verbs directly associated with it, you might hear phrases like: - "To face the music" - which means to confront the consequences of one's actions, often in a legal sense.

Summary:

In summary, "indictable" is a legal term that describes serious offenses that can lead to formal charges in court.

Academic

Adjective

1. liable to be accused, or cause for such liability
   • the suspect was chargeable
   • an indictable offense

Synonyms

• chargeable