formal 5K

Justice Department

UK //ˈdʒʌstɪs dɪˈpɑːtmənt// US //ˈdʒʌstɪs dɪˈpɑrtmənt// Pronunciation

Definition

A federal agency responsible for overseeing and enforcing the law.

Listen to definition

In simple words: A government department responsible for legal affairs.

Examples

• The Justice Department announced new regulations to protect consumer rights.
• She works for the Justice Department in civil rights enforcement.
• The Justice Department is investigating allegations of fraud.
• Members of the Justice Department testified before Congress today.
• The Justice Department supports community policing initiatives.

Usage notes

Use 'Justice Department' when referring to the U.S. federal agency. More formal settings; avoid in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun phrase

Memory hint

Think of the 'Justice Department' as a gatekeeper for laws and fairness.

Collocations

• Justice Department regulations
• Justice Department policies
• Justice Department investigation

Synonyms

• Department of Justice
• legal department
• law enforcement agency

Common mistakes

• 'Justice department' should be capitalized as 'Justice Department'.
• Confusing the Justice Department with local law enforcement agencies.