accomplices - Master This Word
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accomplices Word Meanings
- a person who helps another commit a crime
- an associate in wrongdoing
- someone who aids or enables
accomplices Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
- He is my accomplice in the game.
- She called him her accomplice in crime.
- The thief had an accomplice waiting in the car.
- They worked together as accomplices.
- An accomplice can help with a plan.
accomplices Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/əˈkɒmplɪs/
US
/əˈkɑːmplɪs/
accomplices Word Etymology
Root: 'acom-' (to) + 'plicare' (to fold) → Historical origin: Latin -> Old French -> English. Memory image: Imagine two people working together, to 'fold' their efforts into a single action, hence becoming partners in crime.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
An accomplice is someone who helps another person commit a crime. In everyday English, the term emphasizes participation rather than the mastermind role; an accomplice can provide money, tools, information, or access, or simply assist with planning. The phrase often appears in legal contexts, news reports, and crime fiction, and it pairs with 'to convict' or 'charged as an accomplice'. It is distinct from a bystander, a witness, or a mere helper who commits no wrongdoing. Learners should note that 'accomplice' is almost always used in a negative, criminal sense, and the related adjective is 'accomplicit' though less common.
Usage Reminders
- Identify active participation, not mere presence. Use with legal verbs like convict or charge as an accomplice. Avoid using for casual helpers. The adjective form is 'accomplicit'. Check collocations: 'accomplice to a crime' vs 'accomplice in a crime'. Prefer precise crime context. Beware of formal/legal tone in writing.
Common Misconceptions
- It only applies to violent crimes.
- An accomplice is the same as the mastermind or planner.
- A bystander can be an accomplice.
- You can use it for everyday, non-criminal helpers.
- There is no difference between 'accomplice' and 'accessory' in all contexts.
Thinking Differences
Accomplice is a legal term signaling active participation in a crime, not mere presence or casual help; learners often confuse it with associate or helper in ordinary contexts.
Learning Tips
- Study the legal nuance: participation vs mastermind.
- Learn common collocations: 'accomplice to a crime', 'accomplice in the robbery'.
- Distinctly contrast with bystander, accessory, witness.
- Practice sentence patterns: 'charged as an accomplice', 'convicted as an accomplice'.
- Note the negative connotation in most contexts.
- Use the adjective form 'accomplicit' correctly in formal writing.
Related Listening
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