have an alibi, break an alibi, cast doubt on an alibi

Formal and Informal Expressions of alibi

In different contexts, you can replace 'alibi' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'defense, justification' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'excuse' is a commonplace synonym.

alibi: Explore its Definition & Usage

alibi Definition

a claim or piece of evidence that one was elsewhere when an act, typically a criminal one, is alleged to have taken place.

Using alibi: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "alibi" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
He had a solid alibi for the night of the murder.
Example
The suspect's alibi fell apart under questioning.
Example
She provided an alibi for her friend who was accused of theft.

alibi Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for alibi

Phrases with alibi

have an alibi
to have evidence or a witness that proves one was not present at the scene of a crime
Example
He was able to prove he had an alibi and was not involved in the robbery.
break an alibi
to provide evidence that proves someone's alibi is false
Example
The prosecution was able to break the defendant's alibi and prove he was at the scene of the crime.
cast doubt on an alibi
to raise questions about the validity of someone's alibi
Example
The witness's testimony cast doubt on the defendant's alibi.

Origins of alibi

from Latin 'alibi', meaning 'elsewhere'

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Summary: alibi in Brief

'Alibi' [ˈælɪbaɪ] refers to a claim or evidence that one was elsewhere when an act, typically a criminal one, is alleged to have taken place. It is often used in legal contexts, as in 'He had a solid alibi for the night of the murder.' 'Alibi' can be used in phrases like 'have an alibi,' meaning to have evidence or a witness that proves one was not present at the scene of a crime, and 'break an alibi,' meaning to provide evidence that proves someone's alibi is false.