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

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

There's other circumstantial evidence, too, supporting the theory. —

The Week Uk, theweek, 20 Oct. 2024 That can leave investigators reliant on witness reports and circumstantial evidence. —

Evan Bush, NBC News, 5 Oct. 2024 Critics of the reform effort have said the department is bringing cases against officers based on circumstantial evidence, and civilian panels are less likely than officers to fear running afoul of top brass. —

Libor Jany, Los Angeles Times, 19 June 2024 Scientists used dental analysis and circumstantial evidence recovered from the scene to confirm the identity. —

Kerry Breen, CBS News, 9 Oct. 2024 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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Dictionary Entries Near circumstantial evidence

circumstantial

circumstantial evidence

circumstantialness

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Cite this Entry

Style

“Circumstantial evidence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/circumstantial%20evidence. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.

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