acquittal
What does "acquittal" mean?
An acquittal is a formal verdict in a court of law stating that a person accused of a crime is not guilty. The mental image is that of a judge or jury clearing a person of all charges, effectively washing away the accusations and allowing the individual to walk away as a free person. This term is strictly used in legal contexts and formal journalism. It is a noun that describes the result of a trial, not the act of the trial itself. You will often hear it paired with verbs like "secure," "grant," or "receive," as in "the defendant secured an acquittal."
"acquittal" in conversation
Legal news update
The trial concluded this morning with a surprising acquittal for the defendant.
The trial concluded this morning with a surprising acquittal for the defendant.
That’s a huge headline. Get the details on why the jury decided to clear him.
That’s a huge headline. Get the details on why the jury decided to clear him.
Used here to describe the final outcome of a high-profile court case.
Discussing a documentary
I just finished that true crime series; the acquittal felt so wrong to the victim's family.
I just finished that true crime series; the acquittal felt so wrong to the victim's family.
I know, but the evidence just wasn't strong enough for a conviction.
I know, but the evidence just wasn't strong enough for a conviction.
Demonstrates how the word refers to the legal decision rather than the moral truth.
"acquittal" in a sentence
The judge announced the acquittal after the jury deliberated for only two hours.
The judge announced the acquittal after the jury deliberated for only two hours.
After years of fighting the charges, the defendant was finally granted an acquittal.
After years of fighting the charges, the defendant was finally granted an acquittal.
The unexpected acquittal of the senator sent shockwaves through the political landscape, sparking public outcry.
The unexpected acquittal of the senator sent shockwaves through the political landscape, sparking public outcry.
