What is the opposite of “culpate”?

What is the antonym of “culpate”?

The antonyms of culpate are exonerate, absolve, and acquit. These words convey the opposite meaning of culpate, which is to hold someone responsible for a wrongdoing or fault.

Brief Definitions of the Antonym(s)

Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!

exonerate

To clear someone of blame or accusation.

Example

The DNA evidence exonerated the suspect, proving his innocence.

absolve

To declare someone free from guilt or responsibility.

Example

The priest absolved the penitent of his sins after he confessed.

acquit

To find someone not guilty of a crime or offense.

Example

The jury acquitted the defendant of all charges due to lack of evidence.

How are these antonyms different from each other?

• 1. Exonerate implies that the person was falsely accused and is now cleared of any wrongdoing.
• 2. Absolve suggests that the person may have been responsible for the act, but is forgiven or released from blame.
• 3. Acquit is a legal term that means the person has been found not guilty of a crime or offense.

Good things to know

• 1. Legal Context: Use exonerate, absolve, and acquit in legal settings to describe the outcome of a trial or investigation.
• 2. News Reporting: Incorporate these antonyms in news articles to report on court cases and legal proceedings.
• 3. Personal Communication: Use these words to express forgiveness or to clear someone's name in personal conversations.

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Remember this!

The antonyms of culpate are exonerate, absolve, and acquit. These words convey the opposite meaning of holding someone responsible for a wrongdoing or fault. Use them in legal contexts, news reporting, or personal communication to describe the outcome of a trial or investigation, report on court cases, or express forgiveness.