Basic Details
Word: Acquittal
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: A legal judgment that someone is not guilty of a crime.
Synonyms: Exoneration, clearance, vindication
Antonyms: Conviction, sentence, guilty verdict
Idioms and Phrases
- Get off scot-free: To escape without being punished or to be acquitted. Example: "She was worried about the trial, but in the end, she got off scot-free."
- Walk free: To be released without punishment after being acquitted. Example: "After the verdict was read, he was able to walk free from the courtroom."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The jury's decision led to the acquittal of the defendant, who was thankful for their fairness.
Example 2: After a lengthy trial, the judge announced the acquittal, bringing relief to the accused.
Example 3: An acquittal does not necessarily mean someone is innocent; it just means they were not proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Fun Fact
The word "acquittal" comes from the Old French word "acquiter," which means "to free from a debt or obligation." Over time, it evolved to signify being freed from legal accusations.
Famous Quote
"In law, nothing is certain but the expense." Samuel Butler This reflects the lengthy processes often involved in seeking acquittals in court.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "acquittal" mean?
a) Being found guilty of a crime
b) A judgement of being not guilty
c) A type of punishment
d) A legal document
Answer: b) A judgement of being not guilty
2. Which of these is a synonym of "acquittal"?
a) Sentence
b) Exoneration
c) Guilty verdict
d) Punishment
Answer: b) Exoneration
3. What is an antonym of "acquittal"?
a) Freedom
b) Indemnity
c) Conviction
d) Justice
Answer: c) Conviction
4. Which sentence uses "acquittal" correctly?
a) The acquittal led to applause from the audience.
b) The acquittal was a type of food.
c) He received an acquittal for his excellent work.
d) The acquittal of the play was very entertaining.
Answer: a) The acquittal led to applause from the audience.
5. What does the idiom "walk free" mean?
a) To leave a place immediately
b) To be released without punishment
c) To go for a walk
d) To earn money
Answer: b) To be released without punishment
