Okuzeka
Law vocabulary · Evidence & Proof

Oath

Meaning in law, with examples

/əʊθ/nounCommon term

In law, oath means: A formal and serious promise to tell the truth in court or to carry out official duties faithfully, usually spoken aloud in a set form of words.

In Turkish: yemin

How it is used

Witnesses 'take' or 'swear' an oath and then give evidence 'under oath'. People who do not wish to swear a religious oath can 'affirm' instead, which has the same legal effect. Lying under oath is perjury. Judges, officials and new lawyers also take oaths when they start their duties.

Example sentences

  1. Remember that you are under oath, Mr Clarke.

  2. The witness took the oath and confirmed her name and address.

Common collocations

  • under oath
  • take an oath
  • swear an oath
  • oath of office
  • lie under oath
  • testifyTo give evidence in court or at another formal hearing, usually by answering questions after promising to tell the truth.
  • witnessA person who tells a court what they saw, heard or know about a case; also someone who watches a document being signed and then signs it too.
  • affidavitA written statement of facts that a person signs and swears or affirms is true, usually in front of an authorised official, so that it can be used as evidence.
  • testimonyA formal statement that a witness makes in court or in writing, usually under oath, about facts they know.

More terms: Evidence & Proof

Practise with graded reading

Reading at the right level is the fastest way to make new words stick. Pick free English books by level:

This page explains English vocabulary for learners. It is not legal advice.