judges

word · lemma: judge

/ˈdʒədʒɪz/
JUH-jiz
/dʒˈʌdʒɪz/
JUH-jiz

Definition

Judges are people whose job is to make legal decisions in court. The word can also refer more generally to people who decide who is best in a competition, but its main meaning is court officials.

Usage & Nuances

This is the plural of 'judge'. Most often it means court officials, especially in news or legal contexts. In non-legal contexts, 'judges' often appears with competitions or talent shows, such as 'the judges chose a winner'. Do not confuse it with the verb 'judges' meaning 'forms an opinion about'.

Example Sentences

The judges entered the courtroom at nine o'clock.

basic

Three judges listened to her case.

basic

The judges picked the best singer.

basic

The judges weren't convinced by his excuse.

natural

One of the judges asked a really tough question.

natural

The judges took forever to announce the winner.

natural