What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
indictment
Example
The grand jury returned an indictment against the suspect for embezzlement. [indictment: noun]
Example
The prosecutor presented the indictment to the court. [indictment: noun]
arraignment
Example
The defendant was arraigned on charges of assault and battery. [arraigned: verb]
Example
The arraignment hearing was scheduled for next week. [arraignment: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Arraignment is more commonly used than indictment in everyday language, as it is the first court appearance for a defendant and is often covered in news reports. However, both words are important legal terms in the criminal justice system.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between indictment and arraignment?
Both indictment and arraignment are formal legal terms and are used in formal contexts such as court proceedings and legal documents.
