to sue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to sue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the act of taking legal action against someone in a court of law. Example: "She decided to sue her former employer for wrongful termination."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Lawyers threatened to sue.

The New York Times

He decided to sue.

The New Yorker

"We had to sue.

The New York Times

She wanted to sue.

The New York Times

Clay threatened to sue.

The New Yorker

I'd prefer to sue".

The New Yorker

Are you going to sue?

The Economist

Mr. Ackman threatened to sue.

The New York Times

I'm going to sue you'".

Independent

He threatens to sue her.

Independent

D.S.K. threatened to sue him.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to sue", clearly identify who is suing whom to avoid ambiguity. For example, "The company decided to sue its supplier for breach of contract."

Common error

Be mindful that "Sue" is also a common name. Ensure the context clearly indicates whether you're referring to the act of taking legal action ("to sue") or referring to a person named Sue.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to sue" functions as an infinitive, most commonly used as a verb phrase indicating the intention or action of initiating a legal process against someone. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and widely used. Examples include sentences like "Lawyers threatened to sue" or "She wanted to sue."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to sue" is a grammatically correct and very common way to express the act of initiating legal action. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, and its frequent appearance in news and media underscores its widespread use. When writing, ensure that the context clarifies who is suing whom and be mindful of potential confusion with the proper noun "Sue". Alternatives like "to file a lawsuit" or "to take legal action" can provide more formal or broader alternatives depending on the intended nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to file a lawsuit

Replaces "sue" with the more formal term "lawsuit", emphasizing the legal document initiating the action.

to take legal action

A broader term encompassing any legal steps, not just filing a lawsuit.

to bring a case against

Focuses on the act of presenting a legal case in court against someone.

to initiate proceedings

A formal way of saying starting a legal process.

to litigate

A more concise, legal term for engaging in a lawsuit.

to press charges

Specifically relates to initiating criminal legal action.

to seek redress

Implies seeking compensation or remedy for a wrong suffered.

to lodge a complaint

A formal way of submitting a grievance, often a precursor to legal action.

to prosecute

Specifically refers to the government bringing legal action in a criminal case.

to contest

To challenge or dispute something legally.

FAQs

How is "to sue" used in a sentence?

The phrase "to sue" is used to indicate the act of initiating legal action against someone. For example, "She decided "to sue" her landlord for neglecting repairs."

What are some alternatives to "to sue"?

Alternatives to "to sue" include phrases like "to file a lawsuit", "to take legal action", or "to bring a case against", depending on the context.

Which is correct, "to sue" or "sue"?

"To sue" is the infinitive form of the verb, generally preceded by an auxiliary verb, while "sue" is the base form. Example: "They plan "to sue"." vs. "They may "sue"."

What's the difference between "to sue" and "prosecute"?

"To sue" generally refers to civil actions, where one party seeks compensation from another. "Prosecute" refers to criminal actions, where the government brings charges against an individual for violating the law.