prosecution

The process of bringing someone to court because they are accused of a crime.

• He could face prosecution.
• There was not enough evidence for a prosecution.
• The new law allows prosecution for these offences.

How to use it: prosecution for something (He faces prosecution for stealing public money.); prosecution of someone (The prosecution of the suspect began last month.)

Common phrases: criminal prosecution, face prosecution, avoid prosecution

The lawyers or public authority trying to prove in court that an accused person committed a crime.

• The prosecution called three witnesses.
• The jury heard arguments from the prosecution and the defence.
• A prosecution lawyer questioned her about the missing documents.

Opposites: defence

Common phrases: the prosecution case, prosecution witness, prosecution lawyer, state prosecution

The continued work of carrying out a plan, activity, or effort until it is finished.

• The prosecution of the war required more troops.
• Successful prosecution of the project depended on steady funding.
• The minister promised vigorous prosecution of the campaign against corruption.

How to use it: prosecution of something (The prosecution of the campaign required careful planning.)

Similar words: execution, conduct, pursuit

Opposites: abandonment

Common phrases: prosecution of war, vigorous prosecution, successful prosecution