prosecute
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ˈprɒsɪkjuːt/
KK: /ˈprɑsɪˌkjut/
intransitive verb
Definition
To take legal action against someone in a court of law, usually to enforce a law or seek punishment for a crime.
Example
The state decided to prosecute the suspect for theft.
Tense Forms
Past: prosecuted
Past Participle: prosecuted
Conversation
Did you hear that they decided to prosecute the case after all?
Yeah, I read about it; it should be interesting to see how it unfolds.
I wonder how long it will take before they actually start to prosecute.
It might take a while, but I'm sure they'll keep everyone updated.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
litigate
sue
charge
Antonyms
defend
absolve
dismiss
transitive verb
Definition
To take legal action against someone in a court of law, usually to charge them with a crime or to enforce a legal right.
Example
The state decided to prosecute the company for violating environmental laws.
Tense Forms
Past: prosecuted
Past Participle: prosecuted
Conversation
Did you hear they decided to prosecute the company for environmental violations?
Yeah, it’s about time they took action against them!
I wonder how long the trial will take since they usually drag these things out.
Root Explanation
Prosecute → It is formed from "pro-" (meaning forward) and "sequi" (meaning to follow). The word "prosecute" means to follow a case forward in a legal context, typically to bring someone to justice.
Memory Tip
Think of 'following' ('sequi') a legal case 'forward' ('pro-') — that's why prosecute means to pursue legal action.
Visually Confused Words
reprosecute
persecute
unprosecuted
persecutee
preacute
precut
persecutive