convict

word

/ˈkɑnvɪkt/, /kənˈvɪkt/
KAHN-vikt (noun), kuhn-VIKT (verb)
/ˈkɒnvɪkt/, /kənˈvɪkt/
KON-vikt (noun), kuhn-VIKT (verb)

Definition

As a verb, it means to officially decide in court that someone is guilty of a crime. As a noun, it means a person who has been found guilty of a crime, especially one in prison.

Usage & Nuances

Often used in legal contexts, so it sounds formal. The verb commonly appears in patterns like 'convict someone of murder/fraud.' Don't confuse it with 'suspect' or 'accuse': a person is only 'convicted' after a court decision.

Example Sentences

The court convicted him of theft.

basic

He was young when he was convicted, and he spent ten years in prison.

natural

It's hard to rebuild your life after being labeled a convict.

natural

They could not convict her without proof.

basic

The prison holds many convicts.

basic

The jury refused to convict because the story didn't make sense.

natural