What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
prosecute
Example
The district attorney decided to prosecute the suspect for embezzlement. [prosecute: verb]
Example
The company plans to prosecute the employee for violating their non-disclosure agreement. [prosecute: verb]
indict
Example
The grand jury chose to indict the suspect on charges of fraud. [indict: verb]
Example
The prosecutor plans to indict the suspect for his involvement in the robbery. [indict: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Prosecute is more commonly used than indict in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of legal actions. Indict is a more specific term that is used primarily in legal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between prosecute and indict?
Both prosecute and indict are formal legal terms that are used in legal contexts. However, indict is typically associated with a more formal tone, as it involves a grand jury and formal charges being brought against someone.
