trial
13 synonyms and 0 antonyms for trial, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A formal examination of evidence in court to decide whether someone is guilty of a crime or liable in a dispute.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use trial
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Anglo-Norman trial, from trier, "to test, sort, pick out" — the same French root behind triage.
Full origin of trial →Frequently asked questions
What does “trial” mean?
The word “trial” means a formal examination of evidence in court to decide whether someone is guilty of a crime or liable in a dispute. In plain terms, a test of something (a product, a person's ability, a claim), or a court case that decides guilt or liability.
How do you pronounce “trial”?
“Trial” is pronounced TREYE-uhl (/ˈtɹaɪəl/ in IPA).
How do you use “trial” in a sentence?
Here is “trial” used in a sentence: “The trial lasted three weeks before the jury reached a verdict.”
What part of speech is “trial”?
Depending on how it is used, “trial” can be a noun and an adjective.
Where does the word “trial” come from?
The word “trial” comes from French. From Anglo-Norman trial, from trier, "to test, sort, pick out" — the same French root behind triage.
Is “trial” a common word?
“Trial” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “trial” have?
“Trial” has 4 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a formal examination of evidence in court to decide whether someone is guilty of a crime or liable in a dispute.
What is the difference between a trial and a hearing?
A hearing is usually a shorter, preliminary court session that settles a specific issue or procedural question, often before a judge alone. A trial is the full examination of evidence, with witnesses and arguments, that reaches a final verdict on guilt or liability. A trial is broader and more conclusive.
What is the difference between a civil and a criminal trial?
A criminal trial decides whether someone is guilty of a crime, is brought by the state, and can lead to punishment such as prison. A civil trial resolves disputes between people or organizations, often over money or rights, deciding liability rather than guilt. Their standards of proof also differ.
What are the main stages of a trial?
A typical trial moves through jury selection, opening statements, the presentation of evidence and witness testimony, cross-examination, closing arguments, the judge's instructions, and finally the verdict. Each stage lets both sides present and challenge evidence before a decision on guilt or liability is reached.
What is the difference between a trial and a lawsuit?
A lawsuit is the entire legal case, from filing a complaint through to its resolution. A trial is one stage within it — the formal courtroom examination of evidence before a verdict. Many lawsuits are settled or dismissed and never actually reach the trial stage at all.