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.

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

The protesters accuse him and his government of a lack of transparency concerning the developments planned on the Albanian coast.

From Barron's • Jun. 20, 2026

Critics accuse Fifa organisers of watering down the contest, but fans of Cape Verde, Curacao, Jordan and Uzbekistan are happy to see their countries making their debuts.

From BBC • Jun. 6, 2026

“I can’t accuse anyone else of treason,” he said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 3, 2026

“You didn’t need to tell my father I was coming to Baltimore,” I accuse her now.

From "The Brightwood Code" by Monica Hesse

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

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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!