Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
press charges
phrase
/prɛs ˈtʃɑrdʒɪz/
Definition
To formally accuse someone of a crime, bringing the matter to law enforcement for prosecution.
Examples
- After the incident, she decided to press charges against the assailant.
- The police advised him that he could press charges if he wished.
Meaning
When you press charges, you are telling the authorities that you believe a crime has been committed against you or someone else, and you want legal action to be taken against the responsible party.
Synonyms
- file a complaint
- initiate legal action
- bring a case
