formal 10K+

Acquittal

UK //əˈkwɪt.əl// US //əˈkwɪt̬.əl// Pronunciation

Definition

A legal judgment that a person is not guilty of a crime.

Listen to definition

In simple words: A decision that someone is not guilty of a crime.

Examples

• The jury delivered an acquittal after hours of deliberation.
• She was overjoyed by her acquittal and felt vindicated.
• The defendant's acquittal shocked the prosecution team.
• After an acquittal, many people celebrated the fair trial.
• An acquittal does not necessarily mean the person is innocent.

Usage notes

Used mainly in legal contexts. Appropriate in courtroom discussions, not casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

noun

Memory hint

Think of 'a quit all' - free from blame or guilt.

Collocations

• legal acquittal
• acquittal verdict
• acquittal of charges

Synonyms

• exoneration
• clearance
• release
• dismissal

Common mistakes

• Confusing acquittal with conviction.
• Using it in non-legal contexts.
• Mispronouncing the word.