cross examines

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cross examines" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in a legal context when referring to the questioning of a witness by the opposing party during a trial. Example: "During the trial, the defense attorney cross examines the prosecution's key witness to uncover inconsistencies in their testimony."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

This study analytically cross examines the consistency among available zero-dimensional material balance equations (MBEs) for liquid-rich gas equations and derive a new simple yet rigorous MBE starting from governing equations applicable to these systems.

Journal of Petroleum Exploration and Production Technology

Is it possible that there may be a time when a lawyer cross examines a doctor in the witness stand, asking why they did not address their sick or dead patients' physical inactivity, citing clinical guidelines, because it is known to be one of the highest modifiable risk factors for morbidity and mortality?

British Journal of Sports Medicine

When an attorney cross examines a witness, the attorney is the one who should be driving the conversation.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

They were not cross examined by plaintiffs.

Harvard University

21 September: Roberts is cross examined by the high court.

The Guardian

Ms. Carradine managed to avoid eye contact with Mr. Pellicano until he stood to cross examine her.

Huffington Post

Thereafter, we cross examined the accuracy of the DC information.

BMC Health Services Research

Know when "not" to cross examine a witness.

WikiHow

You can only cross-examine within the scope of direct examination.

Huffington Post

"Cross-examining Mukasey was much more difficult than cross-examining Podell," Mr. Giuliani recalled.

The New York Times

He smiles like the Cheshire Cat, then cross-examines fiercely.

The New York Times - Style

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "cross examines" when referring to the specific legal process of questioning a witness by the opposing party in court. It is also appropriate in academic contexts when analyzing or comparing different viewpoints.

Common error

Avoid using "cross examines" in informal or general situations. Opt for alternatives like "examines closely" or "analyzes" when the context is not specifically related to law or formal investigation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cross examines" functions as a verb phrase indicating the action of questioning a witness by the opposing party in a legal setting, aiming to challenge or clarify their testimony. Ludwig AI confirms this usage, highlighting its application in both legal and analytical contexts.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

33%

Wiki

33%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "cross examines" is grammatically correct and primarily used in legal and analytical contexts, as affirmed by Ludwig AI. It describes the act of questioning a witness by the opposing side in court or critically analyzing information. While its frequency is rare, its usage is authoritative in science, news, and wiki contexts. When writing, reserve "cross examines" for formal situations and consider alternatives like ""scrutinizes"" or ""analyzes"" in less formal settings. The phrase's formality and specific meaning make it a valuable tool in precise and objective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cross-questions

A direct synonym, but less commonly used. It retains the legal context but sounds somewhat archaic.

examines closely

Emphasizes the detailed and careful nature of the examination. It suggests a focus on minute details and thoroughness.

analyzes

Focuses on breaking down a subject into its constituent parts to understand its structure and function. It suggests a systematic and logical approach.

scrutinizes

Implies a more detailed and critical inspection, often used in academic or analytical contexts. It suggests a thorough examination to identify flaws or inconsistencies.

interrogates

Conveys a more formal and potentially adversarial questioning, often used in legal or investigative settings. Focuses on eliciting information.

investigates

Suggests a systematic and thorough inquiry to discover and examine the facts of an incident, allegation, etc. so as to establish the truth.

queries

A more general term for asking questions, but can imply a more challenging or skeptical line of questioning.

probes

Implies a deep and thorough investigation, often into sensitive or hidden matters. It can suggest an attempt to uncover concealed information.

challenges

Suggests a direct confrontation or questioning of someone's statements or beliefs.

questions

A general term that can be used in many contexts to simply inquire information from someone or something.

FAQs

How is "cross examines" typically used in legal settings?

In legal contexts, "cross examines" refers to the questioning of a witness by the opposing party during a trial or hearing. The goal is to test the witness's credibility, challenge their testimony, or elicit information that supports the cross-examiner's case. It's a more targeted approach than simply "examines".

What are some alternatives to "cross examines" in non-legal contexts?

Depending on the specific meaning you want to convey, you can use alternatives such as "scrutinizes", "analyzes", or "investigates". These options are suitable for academic, analytical, or general contexts.

When is it appropriate to use "cross examines" versus "examines closely"?

"Cross examines" is best reserved for legal or formal investigative contexts. "Examines closely" is a more general phrase that can be used in a variety of situations where a detailed and careful inspection is required.

Can "cross examines" be used in academic writing?

Yes, "cross examines" can be used in academic writing when the context involves a critical analysis or comparison of different viewpoints or arguments. For example, a study might "cross examine" different theories to identify inconsistencies or weaknesses. However, it's less formal than "analyzes".