formal 5K

Acquitted

UK //əˈkwɪt.ɪd// US //əˈkwɪtəd// Pronunciation

Definition

Declared not guilty of a crime by a court.

Listen to definition

In simple words: To be declared not guilty in a court of law.

Examples

• The jury acquitted the defendant of all charges.
• After a lengthy trial, he was finally acquitted.
• She was acquitted due to lack of evidence.
• The court acquitted him, stating there was insufficient proof.
• Many were surprised when the accused was acquitted.
• The lawyer argued passionately for his client to be acquitted.

Usage notes

Used in legal contexts, primarily in formal discussions about court rulings. Avoid in casual conversation.

Grammar pattern

acquitted + object

Memory hint

Remember 'a quit' - someone who is free after a trial.

Collocations

• acquitted of charges
• acquitted in court
• acquitted by jury

Synonyms

• exonerated
• absolved
• dismissed
• released
• vindicated

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'acquit' as the past tense.
• Using inappropriately in non-legal contexts.
• Confusing with 'guilty' or 'convicted'.