grave charge

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "grave charge" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a serious accusation or allegation against someone, often in a legal or formal context. Example: "The defendant faced a grave charge of embezzlement that could result in significant prison time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Fernando's death at Fez in 1443 seems to have been felt by Henry as a grave charge upon his conscience.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Hunt levelled a grave charge at Labour: that it oversaw a systematic cover-up of NHS failures.

The Guardian

He was also reputed to be an atheist with a penchant for blasphemy -- a grave charge in 16th-century England.

The New York Times

However, thematically and emotionally, the novel suggests that a grave charge will be leveled at Isak, a move the novel also resists, elides and elegantly avoids.

The New York Times - Books

On Jan . 20 , 1844a newspaper in Massachusetts published a report of "a grave charge of official misconduct against the able and distinguished District Attorney".

The New York Times

Military chiefs have not explained what actions Bergdahl is specifically accused of that warranted the grave charge of misbehavior before the enemy.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

These are grave charges.

The Guardian

While Mr. Basicano faced grave charges, the judge wrote, he already had been convicted of murder.

The New York Times

But our investigation shows that he has a compelling case to answer on a string of grave charges.

The Economist

"The grave charges against Jason that Iran has now disclosed could not be more ludicrous," he said.

The Guardian

The hearing was his opportunity to enter a plea on the grave charges he faces, including genocide, persecution, deportation and other atrocities of the 1992-1995 Bosnian war.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "grave charge", ensure the context clearly indicates the seriousness of the accusation and its potential consequences. Avoid using it for minor or trivial matters.

Common error

Reserve "grave charge" for situations that genuinely warrant a serious tone. Using it in everyday conversations can sound overly dramatic or insincere.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "grave charge" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically serves as the object of a verb (e.g., 'faced a "grave charge"') or as a complement, denoting a serious accusation or allegation, as confirmed by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Encyclopedias

10%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "grave charge" is a noun phrase used to denote a serious accusation or allegation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and suitability for formal contexts. While not exceedingly common, the expression appears frequently in news and media, as well as encyclopedic sources, highlighting accusations with potentially significant consequences. Alternatives include "serious accusation" or "severe allegation". When employing this phrase, ensure that the context aligns with the solemnity it conveys, avoiding overuse in informal settings. Remember, "grave charge" carries a weight that demands careful consideration.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

serious accusation

Focuses on the severity of the accusation itself.

severe allegation

Highlights the formal and potentially damaging nature of the claim.

weighty indictment

Emphasizes the formal and legal aspect of the charge.

critical accusation

Stresses the importance and potential consequences of the charge.

grievous accusation

Emphasizes the harmful and distressing nature of the accusation.

dire accusation

Focuses on the extremely serious and urgent nature of the accusation.

major accusation

Highlights the significant impact the accusation might have.

significant accusation

Indicates the importance and possible consequences of the claim.

damning accusation

Highlights that the accusation will likely result in a guilty verdict.

harsh accusation

Focuses on the severe and unforgiving nature of the charge.

FAQs

How to use "grave charge" in a sentence?

You can use "grave charge" to describe a serious accusation or allegation against someone, often in a legal or formal setting. For example: "The defendant faced a "grave charge" of embezzlement.".

What can I say instead of "grave charge"?

You can use alternatives like "serious accusation", "severe allegation", or "weighty indictment" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "grave charge"?

Use "grave charge" when the situation involves a serious allegation that could lead to significant consequences, such as legal penalties or severe reputational damage. It is suitable for formal and serious discussions.

What distinguishes a "grave charge" from a regular accusation?

A "grave charge" implies a higher level of severity and potential impact compared to a regular accusation. It suggests that the alleged offense is particularly serious and demands a thorough investigation.