Definition

A statement that someone has done something wrong or illegal. It involves claiming that a person is guilty of a fault or crime.

Example

The accusation against him was proven to be false.

Conversation

Did you hear about the accusation against him at work?

Yeah, it seems pretty serious, doesn’t it?

I can't believe they would make such an accusation without proof.

I know! It really puts his reputation on the line.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Accusation is formed from "ad-" (meaning to) and "causare" (meaning to cause or to make a case). The word refers to the act of making a case against someone, implying that they have done something wrong.

Memory Tip

Think of 'making a case against someone' — 'ad-' means to, and 'causare' means to cause or make a case.

Visually Confused Words