What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
exculpate
Example
The evidence presented in court was enough to exculpate the defendant. [exculpate: verb]
Example
The lawyer's argument helped to exculpate his client from any wrongdoing. [exculpate: verb]
exonerate
Example
The DNA evidence was enough to exonerate the suspect. [exonerate: verb]
Example
The investigation helped to exonerate the accused from any involvement in the crime. [exonerate: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Exonerate is more commonly used than exculpate in everyday language. Exonerate is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while exculpate is less common and is typically used in legal or academic writing.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between exculpate and exonerate?
Exculpate is more formal than exonerate and is often used in legal or academic writing. Exonerate is less formal and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
