circumstantial evidence

noun

: evidence that tends to prove a fact by proving other events or circumstances which afford a basis for a reasonable inference of the occurrence of the fact at issue

Examples of circumstantial evidence in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Wood’s conviction was based mainly on circumstantial evidence. Amanda Lee Myers, USA TODAY, 12 Mar. 2025 The prosecution team largely relied on circumstantial evidence and was unable to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Casey was responsible for her daughter's death. Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 4 Mar. 2025 What was the evidence against Wood? Wood’s conviction was based mainly on circumstantial evidence. Amanda Lee Myers, USA TODAY, 5 Mar. 2025 Likewise, there is strong circumstantial evidence, but no proof, that the virus causing COVID-19 was the result of lab manipulation. Cory Franklin, Chicago Tribune, 3 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for circumstantial evidence

Word History

First Known Use

1736, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of circumstantial evidence was in 1736

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Cite this Entry

“Circumstantial evidence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/circumstantial%20evidence. Accessed 24 Mar. 2025.

Legal Definition

circumstantial evidence

see evidence

More from Merriam-Webster on circumstantial evidence

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