cleared of wrongdoing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cleared of wrongdoing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when stating that someone has been found not guilty of a crime or misconduct after an investigation. Example: "After a thorough investigation, the employee was cleared of wrongdoing and allowed to return to work."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The two officers who shot Zerby were eventually cleared of wrongdoing by an internal investigation.

Los Angeles Times

But Blatter was cleared of wrongdoing Sunday.

The New York Times - Sports

(The scientists were cleared of wrongdoing).

The New York Times

The group was cleared of wrongdoing.

The New York Times

Davydenko was later cleared of wrongdoing.

The New York Times - Sports

All three were cleared of wrongdoing.

The Guardian

The detectives were cleared of wrongdoing.

The New York Times

He returned the bonus and was cleared of wrongdoing.

The New York Times

Mr. DeVecchio was cleared of wrongdoing and allowed to retire.

The New York Times

General McChrystal was among the three cleared of wrongdoing.

The New York Times

Mr. Clement was cleared of wrongdoing in the investigation.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "cleared of wrongdoing" when you want to emphasize that an investigation or formal process has determined someone is not guilty of an offense. It's suitable for situations where accusations were public and a formal clearing is significant.

Common error

Avoid using "cleared of wrongdoing" before an official investigation is complete. Saying someone is "cleared" based on initial impressions can be misleading and may require retraction if new evidence emerges.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cleared of wrongdoing" typically functions as a predicate adjective, modifying a noun or pronoun to indicate that the subject has been formally absolved of any misconduct or illegal activity. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Science

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "cleared of wrongdoing" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to indicate that an individual or entity has been exonerated after an investigation, as supported by Ludwig AI. It is most frequently found in news and media contexts, serving to inform the public of official exonerations and restore confidence. While "cleared of wrongdoing" is a neutral term, more formal alternatives like "exonerated" can be used to emphasize the thoroughness of the investigation. When using this phrase, ensure the investigation is complete to avoid potential retractions. Its prevalence across reputable news sources underscores its acceptability and utility in formal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exonerated

Implies a more formal declaration of innocence, often after an investigation.

acquitted

Specifically refers to being found not guilty in a court of law.

found not guilty

A straightforward statement that a person was not convicted of a crime.

absolved of blame

Focuses on the removal of responsibility for a mistake or negative outcome.

vindicated

Suggests that previous doubts or accusations have been proven false.

absolved of responsibility

Emphasizes the lack of accountability for an action or event.

deemed innocent

Highlights the judgment or assessment of innocence.

exculpated

A formal term meaning to show or prove that someone is not guilty of wrongdoing.

absolved

Simply means to be free from guilt or responsibility.

given a clean bill of health

Figurative language which implies formal approval or authorization.

FAQs

What does it mean to be "cleared of wrongdoing"?

To be "cleared of wrongdoing" means that after an investigation or inquiry, a person or entity has been found not to be guilty of any misconduct, illegal activity, or ethical violations.

What is a more formal way to say "cleared of wrongdoing"?

A more formal way to say "cleared of wrongdoing" is to say someone was "exonerated". This term often implies a more thorough investigation and a more definitive finding of innocence.

Is there a difference between being "acquitted" and being "cleared of wrongdoing"?

Yes. "Acquitted" specifically refers to being found not guilty in a court of law, whereas "cleared of wrongdoing" can apply to a broader range of situations, including internal investigations or ethical inquiries outside of the legal system. Therefore, you can be "acquitted" of a crime, but "cleared of wrongdoing" in an internal investigation.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "cleared of wrongdoing"?

It's appropriate to use "cleared of wrongdoing" when you want to emphasize that an investigation or formal process has determined someone is not guilty of an offense. This is useful in scenarios where accusations were public and a formal clearing is significant.