be exonerated

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be exonerated" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to someone being cleared of blame or wrongdoing, often in a legal context. Example: "After a thorough investigation, the defendant was finally able to be exonerated of all charges."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

We will be exonerated".

The New York Times

"I feel I'll be exonerated".

The New York Times

They need to be exonerated.

The New York Times

We feel he will be exonerated".

The New York Times

"But, in order to be exonerated, it takes so long.

The New Yorker

"We are confident that he will ultimately be exonerated".

The New York Times - Sports

He predicted last month that he would be exonerated.

The New York Times

"I don't see how the party can be exonerated".

The New York Times

But he added, "We have confidence that he'll be exonerated.

The New York Times

"I know my father will be exonerated," she said.

The New York Times

He also said he was confident he would be exonerated.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Since the phrase "be exonerated" is often used in legal and formal contexts, consider using simpler alternatives like "be cleared" or "be found innocent" if the writing style is more casual or informal.

Common error

Avoid using "be exonerated" in casual conversations or informal writing. This phrase carries a weight of formal accusation and legal process, making it sound overly dramatic or inappropriate in lighter contexts. Instead, opt for simpler terms like "be cleared" or "be forgiven".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be exonerated" primarily functions as a passive voice construction, indicating that someone is receiving the action of being cleared from blame. Ludwig's examples demonstrate it's often used in contexts where individuals or entities anticipate or express confidence in being cleared of accusations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

93%

Formal & Business

4%

Wiki

2%

Less common in

Science

1%

Reference

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "be exonerated" is a commonly used phrase signifying the expectation or hope of being cleared from blame, primarily within formal contexts like news and legal settings. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used across various authoritative sources. When employing this phrase, it's best to ensure the context involves formal accusations or wrongdoing to avoid sounding overly dramatic in lighter situations. Alternatives like "be acquitted" or "be cleared of charges" may be more appropriate depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be acquitted

This term specifically implies a legal declaration of not guilty, focusing on the legal outcome.

be cleared of charges

Directly states the removal of accusations, suitable for legal and formal contexts.

be found not guilty

A more formal and legalistic way to express a lack of culpability.

be proven innocent

Emphasizes the establishment of innocence through evidence or investigation.

be vindicated

Suggests proof of innocence after a period of doubt or accusation, implying a restoration of reputation.

be absolved

This carries a stronger sense of moral or religious forgiveness, often used in contexts beyond legal proceedings.

be cleared of suspicion

Indicates that doubt has been removed, although formal charges may not have been filed.

be freed from blame

Highlights the release from responsibility for a wrongdoing, emphasizing the removal of fault.

have one's name cleared

Focuses on the restoration of one's reputation and the removal of stigma.

be justified

Implies that actions were shown to be right or reasonable, not necessarily free from fault, but understandable.

FAQs

How is "be exonerated" typically used?

The phrase "be exonerated" is generally used in formal contexts, often involving legal or official inquiries, to indicate that someone has been cleared of blame or wrongdoing. It implies a formal process of investigation and a resulting declaration of innocence.

What's the difference between "be acquitted" and "be exonerated"?

"Be acquitted" specifically refers to being found not guilty in a court of law. "Be exonerated" is broader and can apply to being cleared of blame in non-legal contexts as well, though it often implies a formal investigation or process.

What are some alternatives to "be exonerated" in formal writing?

In formal writing, you can use phrases like "be cleared of charges", "be absolved", or "be vindicated" as alternatives to "be exonerated", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "I expect to be exonerated"?

Yes, it is correct to say "I expect to be exonerated". It expresses confidence that you will be cleared of any accusations or blame after an investigation or formal process. The examples in Ludwig confirm that this usage is common and grammatically sound.