Definitions

accuse

[uh-kyooz] / əˈkjuz /

VERB

place blame for wrongdoing, fault

Synonyms

STRONGEST

allege arraign arrest attack blame brand charge cite complain denounce implicate indict name prosecute sue summon

STRONG

apprehend attribute betray censure criminate finger frame impeach impute incriminate inculpate libel litigate recriminate slander slur tax

WEAK

blow the whistle bring charges file claim hang something on hold accountable lay at door let have it lodge complaint pin on point finger at serve summons

Antonyms

STRONGEST

applaud approve commend defend exculpate exonerate free let go pardon praise retreat support

STRONG

compliment flatter protect

WEAK

absolve vindicate

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The one thing one can’t justly accuse him of is antisemitism.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 29, 2026

Alternative practitioners accuse him of not understanding the Indian system and attacking them unfairly.

From BBC • Jun. 28, 2026

Greenspan made the move as inflation was falling, so no one could accuse him of shifting the goal posts to claim victory.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 28, 2026

While the flames were still raging, then-Fire Chief Kristin Crowley went on local and national television to accuse city leaders of failing to give her department the resources it needed.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 23, 2026

“Traitress! Traitress! I accuse you of high treason!”

From "The Once and Future King" by T. H. White

Vocabulary lists containing accuse

Wasn't Me: The Lingo of Laying Blame

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

Talk Like Shakespeare Day, List 4

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

Dead End in Norvelt

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!