Vindicate
Years of being doubted can end in a single piece of evidence, a clean audit, or a finish line photo that finally matches the story you told.
Learn This WordMeaning
To clear someone of blame or suspicion; to show or prove to be right or justified.
Memory trick
Think "VIN-DICATE" = "VIN (win) + DICATE (dedicate)", winning your case and dedicating yourself to justice. Vindicate = prove right.
Examples
The investigation vindicated her of all charges.
Recent studies vindicate the scientist's controversial theory.
His success vindicated his decision to pursue an unconventional career path.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Etymology
From Latin vindicatus "claimed, avenged," from vindicare "to lay claim to, avenge," from vis "force" + dicare "to dedicate."
Usage Notes
Used in legal, academic, and personal contexts to describe clearing someone's name or proving someone right.
Real-life contexts
Express relief: "The evidence vindicated him completely."
Discuss validation: "This research vindicates our approach."
Use in personal context: "I felt vindicated when I was proven right."
Common Mistakes
Don't confuse with "vindictive" (seeking revenge). Vindicate means to clear or justify.
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Start LearningQuick Facts
Part of Speech
verb
Difficulty
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