verdict
6 synonyms and 0 antonyms for verdict, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A jury's or judge's formal decision on a case.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use verdict
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Anglo-Norman verdit, blending words meaning "true" and "saying" — literally "a true statement."
Full origin of verdict →Frequently asked questions
What does “verdict” mean?
The word “verdict” means a jury's or judge's formal decision on a case. In plain terms, an official decision in a trial, or informally, someone's final opinion or conclusion.
How do you pronounce “verdict”?
“Verdict” is pronounced VUR-dihkt (/ˈvɝ.dɪkt/ in IPA).
How do you use “verdict” in a sentence?
Here is “verdict” used in a sentence: “The jury returned a verdict of not guilty.”
What part of speech is “verdict”?
“Verdict” is a noun.
Where does the word “verdict” come from?
The word “verdict” comes from Anglo-Norman. From Anglo-Norman verdit, blending words meaning "true" and "saying" — literally "a true statement.".
Is “verdict” a common word?
“Verdict” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the C1 level.
How many meanings does “verdict” have?
“Verdict” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a jury's or judge's formal decision on a case.
What is the difference between a verdict and a sentence?
A verdict is the formal decision on the case itself, such as guilty or not guilty, while a sentence is the punishment handed down after a guilty verdict. The jury or judge delivers the verdict; the judge then decides the sentence.
What is the difference between a verdict and a judgment?
In legal use, a verdict is the finding on the facts of a case, classically returned by a jury, while a judgment is the court's formal, binding resolution of the whole matter. In everyday English the words blur, and verdict often just means a considered opinion, as in "my verdict on the film."
Do you reach, return, or deliver a verdict?
All three collocations are standard: a jury reaches a verdict during deliberation, returns it to the court, and the verdict is then delivered or announced. "Reach a verdict" is the most common phrasing in general writing.
Can verdict be used outside a courtroom?
Yes. Beyond a jury's or judge's formal decision, verdict commonly means any considered judgment or opinion, as in "the critics' verdict was unanimous." This extended use is fully standard in reviews, sport, and everyday conversation.