Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
press charges
verb phrase
/prɛs ˈʧɑrdʒɪz/
Definition
To formally accuse someone of a crime and initiate legal proceedings against them.
Examples
- After the incident, she decided to press charges against the offender.
- The victim can choose whether or not to press charges depending on the circumstances.
- In some cases, police may press charges even if the victim does not want to.
Meaning
To take legal action against someone by alleging that they have committed a crime.
Synonyms
- file a complaint
- bring a lawsuit
- initiate prosecution
