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

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 family has feelings opposite of mine when it comes to politics but I was always able to discuss things civilly.

From BBC • Oct. 9, 2024

It would have been a pleasure to tell him where to go, but I spoke civilly.

From "Kindred" by Octavia Butler