coroner
word
Definition
A coroner is a public official who investigates certain deaths, especially sudden, violent, or unexplained ones. In some places, the coroner also decides the official cause of death.
Usage & Nuances
Used mainly in legal, medical, and news contexts. The exact role depends on the country or region: a 'coroner' is not always the same as a 'medical examiner', though learners often confuse them. Common combinations include 'the coroner's report', 'the coroner ruled that...', and 'called in the coroner'.
Example Sentences
The coroner examined the body.
basic
We're still waiting for the coroner's report, so nobody wants to guess what happened yet.
natural
The police called the coroner after the accident.
basic
The coroner said the death was not suspicious.
basic
The coroner ruled that it was an accidental death.
natural
Once the coroner gets involved, the case usually becomes a lot more formal.
natural