Definition of Indict
Quick Meaning of Indict
When prosecutors officially charge someone with committing a crime, usually based on evidence presented to a grand jury. The person is now formally accused.
Detailed Definition of Indict
To formally accuse a person of or charge them with a crime in a court of law.
How to Pronounce Indict
Stress pattern: oO (2-syllable word).
Tip: The 'c' is SILENT. Pronounce: in-DYTE. Stress the second syllable. The 'd' is connected to the 'i' sound.
Watch out: Some learners pronounce the 'c' as 'in-DIC-t' which is wrong. The 'c' is completely silent: in-DYTE.
Origin and Etymology of Indict
From Old French 'enditer' (to write, compose). The 'c' is silent because of Middle English pronunciation patterns. Entered English legal terminology in 14th century with Norman French influence.
How to Use Indict in a Sentence
Each example shows “indict” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“The prosecutor announced that the suspect had been indicted on three counts of fraud.”
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“The grand jury voted to indict the corporate executive for embezzlement.”
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“Evidence was insufficient to indict him for the robbery.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Indict
Common Synonyms for Indict
Smart Synonyms for Indict — When to Use Each
- charge
- More general; basic accusation without grand jury process
- prosecute
- Broader; includes taking legal action beyond just indicting
- accuse
- Less formal; general term for making an allegation
Common Collocations with Indict
These phrases pair with “indict” in everyday English:
- indict for
- indict on charges of
- indict someone
- be indicted
- grand jury indict
Common Mistakes When Using Indict
Even fluent speakers slip up with “indict”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: The police indicted the criminal.
- ✓ Correct: The grand jury indicted the criminal. / The prosecutor indicted the criminal.
- Why: Police do not indict; prosecutors and grand juries indict. Use precise legal terms.
- ✗ Wrong: He was indicted of murder.
- ✓ Correct: He was indicted for murder. / He was indicted on murder charges.
- Why: Use 'for' or 'on charges of', not 'of', after 'indict'.
- ✗ Wrong: I am indicting that he is guilty.
- ✓ Correct: I am accusing him of being guilty. / I am alleging that he is guilty.
- Why: 'Indict' is only used in formal legal contexts, not general accusations or personal opinions.
Other Forms of Indict
- Noun: indictment
- Verb: indict
- Adjective: indictable
Frequently Asked Questions About Indict
What is the meaning of "Indict"?
When prosecutors officially charge someone with committing a crime, usually based on evidence presented to a grand jury. The person is now formally accused.
How do you pronounce "Indict"?
The IPA is /ɪnˈdaɪt/. The 'c' is SILENT. Pronounce: in-DYTE. Stress the second syllable. The 'd' is connected to the 'i' sound.
What part of speech is "Indict"?
"Indict" is a verb at C2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Indict"?
Common synonyms include charge, accuse, prosecute.
How do you use "Indict" in a sentence?
For example: "The prosecutor announced that the suspect had been indicted on three counts of fraud."