What is prosecute? Pronunciation and usage in English

prosecute means . Learn how to pronounce and use prosecute through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of prosecute

prosecuteverb

/ˈprɒsɪkjuːt//ˈprɑːsɪkjuːt/

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "prosecute" in English. It's a tricky word! Here's a breakdown and a few ways to approach it:

1. The Core Sounds:

  • pro-: This is pronounced like "pro" as in "problem." (/proʊ/)
  • sec-: This is the trickiest part! It’s pronounced like "sek" with a short "e" sound. (/sek/)
  • -ute: This is pronounced like "you-teh." (/ˈjuːteɪ/)

2. Putting it Together:

When you combine those sounds, you get: proh-SEK-yoot-eh

3. Phonetic Transcription (for accuracy):

IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet): /prəˈsekjuːt/

4. Tips for Pronunciation:

  • Stress: The primary stress is on the second syllable: pro-SEC-ute.
  • "sek" sound: Really focus on making the "sek" sound distinct. Don't let it blend into the "pro" sound. Think of saying "neck" but shorter.
  • "you-teh" at the end: Make sure the "you" sound is clear.
  • Don’t say “pro-sec-u-te” – that’s a common mistake.

5. Listen to Examples:

  • Google Search: Type "how to pronounce prosecute" into Google and click the speaker icon to hear it pronounced by a native speaker.
  • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/prosecute/ - This website offers pronunciations by many different speakers.

Resources:

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Usage and examples with the word prosecute in English

Let's break down how to use the word "prosecute" correctly in English. It's a relatively formal word with a specific meaning.

1. Core Meaning:

At its most basic, "prosecute" means to bring legal charges against someone in a court of law. It’s the process of initiating a criminal case.

2. Different Contexts & Forms:

  • Prosecute a crime: This is the most common usage.

    • Example: "The police investigated the robbery and decided to prosecute the suspect for theft."
    • Example: "The government will prosecute the company for environmental violations."

  • Prosecute a case: Similar to “prosecute a crime,” but can be used more generally when referring to the entire legal action.

    • Example: “The lawyers are preparing to prosecute the case against the former CEO.”

  • Prosecutor (noun): The person who brings the charges. “The prosecutor presented evidence in court.”

  • Prosecution (noun): The legal case itself. “The prosecution rested its case on eyewitness testimony.”

  • Prosecute (a cause or claim): Sometimes used metaphorically to mean to defend or argue for something. This is less common but can be found.

    • Example: "The environmental group is prosecuting the company's actions in court, seeking justice for the damage done to the river.” (Here, "prosecuting" means advocating for justice.)

3. Key Words & Phrases Related to Prosecution:

  • Criminal charges: The specific accusations made against someone.
  • Indictment: A formal accusation by a grand jury.
  • Trial: The legal process where evidence is presented and a verdict is reached.
  • Defendant: The person accused of a crime.
  • Evidence: Facts and information used to prove guilt or innocence.

4. Examples in Sentences (Varied Usage):

  • "The state will prosecute him for assault and battery." (Criminal charges)
  • “The attorney is tasked with prosecuting the case diligently.” (Legal action)
  • “The judge dismissed the charges after reviewing the evidence – the prosecution lacked sufficient proof.” (Referring to the case itself)
  • "She bravely prosecuted a claim for damages against the negligent contractor." (Metaphorical - advocating for a claim)

5. Important Note: “Prosecute” vs. “Pursue”

Don’t confuse “prosecute” with “pursue.” While they can sometimes seem similar, they have different meanings:

  • Prosecute: Specifically about bringing legal charges.
  • Pursue: Means to chase after or try to achieve something – it’s a more general term. ("I’m pursuing my dream of becoming a writer.")

Resources for Further Learning:

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Synonyms for the word prosecute

Practice with vocabulary prosecute

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The district attorney decided to ___________ the suspect to the fullest extent of the law for the serious fraud charges.
  2. After months of meticulous investigation, the team decided to ___________ the lead, believing it would reveal new evidence.
  3. Despite compelling evidence, the victim chose not to ___________ the matter in court, opting for an out-of-court settlement instead.
  4. The company decided to ___________ legal action against the former employee for breaching the confidentiality agreement.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. When a government brings a criminal case against an individual or entity, they typically: a) defend b) absolve c) prosecute d) pardon

  2. If an activist group wants to strongly criticize a company's unethical practices publicly, they might: a) commend b) endorse c) ignore d) condemn

  3. The legal department advised the board that failure to comply with environmental regulations could lead authorities to: a) overlook the issue b) mediate a resolution c) prosecute the company d) issue a warning only

  4. Throughout history, certain minority groups have faced systematic unfair treatment and hostility due to their beliefs, which is known as: a) advocacy b) patronage c) persecution d) promotion

  5. Which of the following actions involves formal legal proceedings to bring a person or organization to justice for a crime? a) Arbitration b) Mediation c) Prosecution d) Negotiation

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The authorities initiated legal action against the company for environmental violations.
  2. The research team decided to continue with their investigation into the new data.
  3. The lawyer argued that the act of charging his client with theft was unjust.

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. prosecute
  2. pursue
  3. prosecute
  4. initiate

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. c) prosecute
  2. d) condemn
  3. c) prosecute the company
  4. c) persecution
  5. c) Prosecution

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The authorities decided to prosecute the company for environmental violations.
  2. The research team decided to continue their investigation into the new data.
  3. The lawyer argued that the prosecution of his client for theft was unjust.

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