Implicate

Verb

Definition: To show or suggest that someone or something is involved in a crime, a problem, or a bad situation.

Synonyms: Involve, Incriminate, Link, Connect

Antonyms: Absolve, Exonerate, Clear, Disentangle

Examples:

The evidence implicates him in the robbery.
His behavior implicates him in the scandal.

Mnemonics:

Implicate starts with "im" which can represent "involve" or "incriminate."

Etymology:

Origin:

From Latin "implicitus" (to be entwined or involved) which is derived from "implicare" (to involve, entwine)

Historical Usage:

The word "implicate" has been used since the 16th century and has retained its basic meaning of involving or linking someone or something to a situation.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Implicate oneself"

Explanation:

To admit or reveal one's own involvement or guilt in a situation.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "implicate" with "explicate" or "complicate."

Explanation:

"Implicate" refers specifically to involvement or incrimination, while "explicate" means to explain or clarify, and "complicate" means to make something more complex or difficult.