exonerate
word
Definition
To officially state that someone is not guilty of a crime or is not responsible for something bad that happened.
Usage & Nuances
Formal and often used in legal or official contexts. Commonly followed by 'someone from/of something' (e.g., 'exonerate him from blame'). Not used for casual excuses—use 'excuse' or 'forgive' in everyday situations. Related to law, investigations, or reports.
Example Sentences
The investigation exonerated her of all charges.
basic
The new evidence exonerated the suspect.
basic
He was finally exonerated after years in prison.
basic
The team was exonerated of any wrongdoing after the investigation concluded.
natural
DNA testing helped to exonerate innocent people wrongly convicted.
natural
After hearing his side of the story, I was happy to exonerate him from blame.
natural