What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
incriminate
Example
The DNA evidence found at the scene incriminated the suspect. [incriminated: past tense verb]
Example
The witness's testimony was used to incriminate the defendant. [incriminate: infinitive verb]
frame
Example
The corrupt police officer framed the innocent man for the robbery. [framed: past tense verb]
Example
The defense argued that the prosecution was trying to frame their client. [frame: present tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Incriminate is more commonly used than frame in everyday language. Incriminate is a more general term that covers a wide range of contexts, while frame is more specific and often used in legal or criminal justice settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between incriminate and frame?
Both incriminate and frame are formal words that are typically used in legal or criminal justice contexts. However, frame is more strongly associated with these contexts and is less likely to be used in everyday conversation.
