Synonyms for

Manslaughter

Verb / ˈmæˌnslɔ:tɜ: / Another word for manslaughter — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

the crime of killing a person without intending to do so or without premeditation

Synonyms & similar words

homicide killing death destruction termination slaying murder felony crime butchery massacre bloodshed annihilation

Synonyms by register

Formal

unlawful killing culpable homicide involuntary homicide

Informal

killing doing someone in offing

Literary

slaying taking a life

Antonyms

murder homicide assault battery aggression violence

Common collocations

  • voluntary manslaughter
  • involuntary manslaughter
  • charged with manslaughter
  • convicted of manslaughter
  • manslaughter charge
  • manslaughter case
  • accidental manslaughter

Word family

noun manslaughter
verb slay

Usage note

Manslaughter refers to an unlawful killing without malice aforethought, distinguishing it from murder. It can be voluntary (heat of passion) or involuntary (criminal negligence).

Example sentences

  1. The driver was charged with manslaughter for causing a fatal car accident.
  2. The surgeon was found guilty of manslaughter after a patient died during a routine surgery.
  3. The defendant pleaded guilty to manslaughter and was sentenced to prison.
  4. The family of the victim was devastated by the news of the manslaughter charge.
  5. Manslaughter is a serious crime that can result in severe punishment.

Quotes

  • 'Manslaughter, not murder, is the verdict.' - Robert Frost
  • 'I do not believe that any man fears to be dead, but only the stroke of death.' - Francis Bacon
  • 'It is better to risk saving a guilty person than to condemn an innocent one.' - Voltaire

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