Synonyms for

Accusation

Verb / ˌækjʌˈzeɪʃʌn / / ˌækju:ˈzeɪʃʌn / Another word for accusation — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

A statement saying that someone has done something wrong or illegal

Synonyms & similar words

charge accusal allegation charge claim impeachment indictment inference insinuation recrimination reproach slander denunciation plaint arraignment blame citation complaint censure fault imputation invective

Synonyms by register

Formal

allegation charge impeachment denunciation

Informal

blame rap knock dig

Literary

censure reproach

Antonyms

approval endorsement praise vindication acquittal justification

Common collocations

  • make an accusation
  • level an accusation
  • face an accusation
  • withdraw an accusation
  • counter an accusation
  • groundless accusation
  • false accusation

Word family

noun accusation
verb accuse
adjective accusatory
adverb accusatorily

Usage note

An accusation is a formal statement that someone has done something wrong or illegal. It is often used in legal or official contexts. Be careful not to confuse it with 'accusatory', which is an adjective describing someone or something that makes accusations.

Example sentences

  1. The accusation was false.
  2. The accusation was that he cheated on the test.
  3. She made an accusation that he stole her phone.
  4. He faced an accusation of assault.
  5. The accusation was thrown out of court.

Quotes

  • An accusation, once made, travels like a stone.
  • An accusation, like a stone, once cast cannot be brought back.
  • An accusation, even if false, always leaves a stain.

Try these popular words

the and that for you with was this are have not from

Practice

Play the Word Synonyms game · Choose level (start near 1)

Worksheets

Grade 4 · Grade 5 · Grade 6

Topics

Guides

Explore more words