civilly

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.

While the Justice Department settles most tax matters civilly through fines, when prosecutors do charge criminal fraud, their conviction rate is over 90%.

From Salon • Jan. 23, 2026

In general, the law is deferential to police, giving officers significant discretion to use force, making it difficult to hold them criminally or civilly liable.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 9, 2026

“But do it civilly and do it responsibly.”

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 15, 2025

The two could civilly debate the issues of the day while cheerily disagreeing with each other—serving as a model of bipartisan debate and domesticity.

From Slate • Nov. 1, 2024

“My children are not of age to be left alone for long,” said I, speaking civilly.

From "Nectar in a Sieve" by Kamala Markandaya