incriminate - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
incriminate Word Meanings
- to make someone appear guilty
- to accuse someone of a crime
- to suggest someone's involvement in wrongdoing
incriminate Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
incriminate Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɪnˈkrɪmɪneɪt/
US
/ɪnˈkrɪməneɪt/
incriminate Word Etymology
(a) in- (not) + criminare (to accuse) < Latin; (b) from Latin through Old French to English; (c) Imagine a scene in a courtroom where a lawyer dramatically points a finger at the defendant, shouting, 'You are guilty!'—this embodies the essence of incrimination.
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
Incriminate is a verb used to describe actions, statements, or evidence that make someone appear guilty of a crime or wrongdoing. In everyday use, a fingerprint, a confession, or damning testimony can incriminate a suspect by linking them to the act. The term carries formal legal weight, but it also appears in news reports and debates to signal blame. To incriminate someone does not always mean there is a formal indictment; it means the presented elements could lead a reasonable person to believe involvement. Learners should note common collocations such as 'incriminating evidence', 'incriminate oneself', and 'to be incriminated by'.
Usage Reminders
- - Use incriminate with a person after verbs like 'to' or directly: 'incriminate him'
- - Say 'incriminating evidence' for strong proof
- - Distinguish from exonerate (to prove innocence)
- - Be careful with passive: 'is incriminated by' the evidence
- - Don't conflate with merely accusing; incriminate implies evidence linking to guilt
- - Pair with context-appropriate subjects like 'evidence', 'testimony', or 'confession'
Common Misconceptions
- Incriminate means a formal courtroom conviction.
- One clue always incriminates someone.
- Only lawyers use the word.
- Incriminate and accuse are exactly the same.
- There must be a formal indictment for someone to be incriminated.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short): In English, incriminate often foregrounds evidence or statements linking someone to wrongdoing, with clear legal weight but also casual use in media. Mistakes include thinking one clue always incriminates, or confusing incriminate with simply accusing.
Learning Tips
- Practice with phrases: incriminating evidence, self-incrimination, incriminate someone else.
- Compare with exonerate to understand opposite meanings.
- Note formal vs. informal usage in media and conversation.
- Watch for collocations that show strength of evidence.
- Use active and passive voice to vary your sentences.
- Keep in mind ethical implications when discussing guilt.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'incriminate' mean?
A.To protect someone from legal charges
B.To reward someone for their actions
C.To blame someone for a crime
D.To celebrate a victory
Step 2: Usage
Choose the sentence that uses 'incriminate' correctly.
A.I always try to incriminate my friends when we play games.
B.The evidence served to incriminate the suspect in the ongoing investigation.
C.He decided to incriminate the paperwork rather than submit it.
D.They offered to incriminate him for his birthday.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'incriminate'?
A.Defend
B.Praise
C.Condemn
D.Support
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'incriminate'?
A.Accuse wrongly
B.Accuse
C.Exonerate
D.Confirm
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where someone might be incriminated?
A.A detective finding evidence against a suspect
B.A person feeling guilty after a mistake
C.A lawyer defending a client in court
D.A judge delivering a sentence to a criminal
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