Prosecution

Definition

Prosecution primarily refers to the institution and conducting of legal proceedings against someone in respect of a criminal charge.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌprɑsɪˈkjuʃən/
• Respelling: PRAH-sih-KYOO-shun (with "PRAH" as in "cot," "sih" as in "sit," "KYOO" as in "cue," and "shun" as in "mission")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌprɒsɪˈkjuːʃən/
• Respelling: PROS-ih-KYOO-shun (with "PROS" as in "cot," "sih" as in "sit," "KYOO" as in "cue," and "shun" as in "mission")

In both dialects, "prosecution" is pronounced with the primary stress on the third syllable, "KYOO." The pronunciation highlights the "KYOO" part clearly, with slight variations in the vowel sound of the first syllable between American and British English.

Etymology

Derived from the verb "prosecute", the term "prosecution" originates from the Latin "prosequi", meaning "to pursue, chase, or follow". The suffix "-tion" denotes the action or result of the verb.

Derivatives

• Prosecutor
• Prosecutorial
• Prosecutrix (female prosecutor in formal terms)
• Prosecutable
• Prosecutee (less common, referring to one who is prosecuted)

Synonyms

• Legal action
• Litigation
• Suit

Antonyms

• Defense
• Acquittal
• Exoneration

Usage

"Prosecution" is primarily used in the legal domain to denote the process of pursuing formal charges against an individual or entity. It symbolizes the act or process of holding a trial against a person who is accused of a crime to see if that person is guilty.

Related Terms

• Criminal prosecution
• Prosecutor's office
• Prosecution team
• Public prosecution

Detailed Definition

Noun

• The institution and conducting of legal proceedings against someone concerning a criminal charge.
• Example: The prosecution presented compelling evidence during the trial.

• The party instituting or conducting legal proceedings, especially in a criminal case.
• Example: The judge asked if the prosecution had any more witnesses to call.

• The continuation of a course of action with a view to its completion.
• Example: The prosecution of the project required significant funds and resources.