C1nounformal5K

Warrant

UK /["/ˈwɒrənt/"]/US /["/ˈwɔːrənt/"]/

Definition

a legal document that is signed by a judge and gives the police authority to do something

In simple words: A reason or explanation for something.

Examples

  • an arrest warrant
  • They **issued a warrant** for her arrest.
  • They had a warrant to search the house.
  • In certain circumstances, police may enter premises without a warrant.
  • The commissioner has issued a warrant for her arrest.
  • The police served a warrant on him.
  • Federal agents tried to serve arrest warrants on him for firearms offences.
  • The police arrived with a warrant to search the house.
  • the issue of warrants for equity shares
  • There is no warrant for such criticism.

Usage notes

Used mainly in legal or academic contexts, 'warrant' often implies a justification that holds weight. It’s not typically used in casual speech.

Grammar pattern

warrant + object

Memory hint

Think of 'warrant' as a 'want' for an 'explanation'—you want to explain something.

Collocations

  • arrest
  • death
  • search
  • authorize
  • grant
  • issue
  • card
  • without a warrant
  • warrant for

Synonyms

  • justification
  • authorization
  • permit
  • endorsement

Antonyms

  • unjustification
  • rejection

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'warranted' — some learners mix the noun 'warrant' with its past participle form.
  • Using 'warrant' without an associated object — it should be followed by what is being warranted.
  • Mistaking 'warrant' for 'guarantee' — 'warrant' implies justification rather than assurance.