incriminate
word
Definition
To make someone appear guilty of a crime or wrongdoing, often by showing evidence that suggests their involvement.
Usage & Nuances
Usually formal or legal. Common in police, legal, or investigative contexts. Often used passively as "was incriminated." Do not confuse with "accuse," which means to state someone did something wrong—"incriminate" usually involves evidence.
Spanish: incriminarPortuguese (BR): incriminarPortuguese (PT): incriminarChinese (Simplified): 使...有罪 - 牵连Chinese (Traditional): 使...有罪 - 牽連Hindi: फँसाना (अपराध में)Arabic: يجرّم - يورّط
Example Sentences
The fingerprints could incriminate him in the crime.
basic
Do not incriminate yourself by answering without a lawyer.
basic
The video did not incriminate anyone.
basic
He tried to cover up the mistake so it wouldn’t incriminate him.
natural
That email could seriously incriminate the company if it gets out.
natural
I don’t want to incriminate anyone, but I saw who did it.
natural