accuse - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
accuse Word Meanings
- to say that someone did something wrong
- to blame someone for a fault
- to formally charge someone with a crime
accuse Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
accuse Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/əˈkjuːz/
US
/əˈkjuːz/
accuse Word Etymology
Latin 'accusare' (ad- = to, causare = to cause) → Old French 'accuser' → English. Imagine pointing a finger at someone while saying 'You did it!'
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 InputEnglish Brain Route
First I shift my stance and place my hands on the desk, guiding my breath to calm before I speak. I move my eyes toward the other person and push a question toward the moment something went wrong. The air tightens as the scene unfolds, and I adjust my voice to keep it clear. I let the words land and hold someone responsible for what happened, inviting a direct answer rather than a soft excuse.
Real Context
Accuse means to say that someone did something wrong, to blame someone for a fault, or to formally charge someone with a crime. In everyday speech you accuse someone of a specific act by using of: accuse her of lying, accuse him of stealing, or the police accused the suspect of murder. The nuance is that accuse foregrounds wrongdoing and assertion, and it is stronger than merely blaming in many contexts; it does not always imply formal legal action. The noun form is accusation, and the past participle forms like accused describe the person or the act. English also distinguishes with charge in formal legal settings, where 'to charge' is used for the act of bringing a formal action, while 'accuse' focuses on the assertion of guilt.
Usage Reminders
- - Use 'accuse someone of' a specific act.
- - Remember it's stronger than blame in many cases.
- - The noun is 'accusation' and the adjective 'accused' describes the person.
- - In legal contexts, 'to charge' is common, but not interchangeable in everyday talk.
- - The passive form 'they were accused' is common in news.
Common Misconceptions
- Accuse and blame are interchangeable in casual speech.
- Accuse always involves a courtroom or legal action.
- You can accuse someone without evidence.
- The phrase 'accuse of' is optional; you can say 'accused someone' without 'of'.
- Being accused automatically means guilt.
Thinking Differences
In English, accuse is a strong, explicit claim about wrongdoing and is often contrasted with blame (moral judgment) and charge (formal legal action). Learners may lurch toward blaming in casual talk or mix up legal terminology with everyday criticism. Remember the pattern accuse someone of something and the noun accusation.
Learning Tips
- Learn the fixed collocation accuse someone of something.
- Differentiate accuse from blame and charge.
- Know the noun accusation and the adjective accused.
- Practice passive: they were accused / was accused.
- Use 'accuse of' with a specific action, not a general fault.
- Notice legal contexts vs everyday talk to avoid formality errors.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'accuse'?
A.To blame
B.To apologize
C.To praise
D.To forgive
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'accuse' used correctly?
A.He accused her for the good work.
B.They accused us with the party planning.
C.She accused him of stealing.
D.I accused him to go to the store.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'accuse'?
A.Praise
B.Excuse
C.Defend
D.Blame
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an opposite (antonym) for 'accuse'?
A.Praise
B.Thank
C.Support
D.Condemn
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life situation would someone 'accuse' another person?
A.At a job interview
B.In a court trial
C.During a birthday party
D.While shopping for groceries
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