C1nounformal10K+

Tribunal

UK /["/traɪˈbjuːnl/"]/US /["/traɪˈbjuːnl/"]/

Definition

a type of court with the authority to deal with a particular problem or disagreement

In simple words: A special court that deals with specific legal cases.

Examples

  • an international war crimes tribunal
  • a military tribunal
  • He stood trial before an international tribunal.
  • She told the tribunal that she was a victim of sex discrimination.
  • She took her case to a tribunal.
  • The case went to a tribunal.
  • The disciplinary tribunal upheld an earlier ruling.
  • The dispute was settled by a tribunal.
  • The tribunal sentenced him to twenty years in prison.
  • an employment tribunal claim

Usage notes

Use 'tribunal' in legal contexts, especially in formal discussions about justice and legal processes. It may not be appropriate in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of a 'tribe' coming together to settle a dispute – a tribunal is a place for ruling.

Collocations

  • administrative tribunal
  • tribunal proceedings
  • international tribunal
  • tribunal decision

Synonyms

  • court
  • judiciary
  • panel
  • committee
  • arbitration

Antonyms

  • court of appeal
  • peers
  • jury

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'court' - a tribunal is usually specific to a type of case.
  • Using 'tribunal' in informal settings - it’s mainly for formal legal contexts.
  • Mispronounced - some learners may stress the wrong syllable.