All Ears English Podcast AEE 2545: Order in the Court! Legal Terms for Everyday Connection
21 snips
Jan 8, 2026 Dive into the world of legal lingo as the hosts unravel the meanings of terms like accuse, allege, and indict. Discover how journalists use 'allegedly' to navigate the tricky waters of libel. Understand the difference between being charged and convicted in a courtroom setting. Enjoy a fun role play that showcases these terms in action. Plus, learn why grasping this vocabulary is essential for engaging in conversations about current events!
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Accuse Is The First, Informal Claim
- 'Accuse' is the earliest, informal claim that someone did something wrong and can be made by anyone.
- It doesn't require formal evidence and applies to minor faults or crimes.
Allege Flags Unproven Claims
- 'Allege' signals a claim without proven evidence and commonly appears in news to avoid legal risk.
- Using 'alleged' protects speakers from libel by showing the claim isn't proven.
Indict Means Courts Move Forward
- 'Indict' is a formal legal step meaning prosecutors and a grand jury found enough evidence to proceed.
- This term is courtroom-specific and marks that the case is moving forward.