Pronunciation: /prɪˈfɜr ˈtʃɑrdʒɪz/
noun a formal accusation of a crime made by a prosecutor or law enforcement
A1 I don't understand what 'prefer charges' means.
A2 The police decided to prefer charges against the suspect.
B1 The prosecutor will decide whether to prefer charges in this case.
B2 The victim's family is urging the authorities to prefer charges against the perpetrator.
C1 The decision to prefer charges should be based on solid evidence.
C2 The attorney general has the authority to prefer charges in high-profile cases.
verb to officially accuse someone of committing a crime
A1 The police prefer charges against the suspect.
A2 The prosecutor decided to prefer charges in the case.
B1 The victim can choose to prefer charges if they wish.
B2 The attorney advised his client to prefer charges against the company.
C1 The judge will consider whether to prefer charges based on the evidence presented.
C2 The district attorney has the authority to prefer charges in serious criminal cases.
formal The prosecutor will decide whether to prefer charges against the suspect.
informal The police might prefer charges if they have enough evidence.
slang If they catch him red-handed, they'll definitely prefer charges.
figurative In the court of public opinion, people may prefer charges even before the legal process begins.
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