accused
word · lemma: accuse
Definition
An accused person is someone who has been said to have committed a crime or done something wrong, especially in a legal case. It is often used as a noun, especially in formal or legal contexts.
Usage & Nuances
Common in legal English: 'the accused' means the person on trial. It is more formal than 'suspect' and is usually used after a charge or in courtroom reporting. Don't confuse it with the verb form in sentences like 'She accused him of lying.'
Example Sentences
The accused stood in front of the judge.
basic
The police questioned the accused for two hours.
basic
The accused said he was innocent.
basic
The lawyer argued that the accused had no reason to be there that night.
natural
Everyone was watching the accused as the verdict was read.
natural
In cases like this, the accused often stays silent until speaking with a lawyer.
natural