Lawsuit
ˈlɔːsuːt
Definitions
A legal action or proceeding in a court of law; a case brought before a court.
ˈlɔːsuːt
A claim or dispute brought to a court of law for resolution.
The lawsuit alleges the company violated environmental regulations.
💡 Simply: A lawsuit is when someone takes another person or company to court because they think something unfair happened. Think of it like a really serious argument that needs a judge to decide who's right.
👶 For kids: When grown-ups can't agree on something and need a judge to help them, it's called a lawsuit.
More Examples
She filed a lawsuit against her former employer for wrongful termination.
They settled the lawsuit out of court to avoid a lengthy trial.
How It's Used
"The company is facing a lawsuit over product defects."
"A potential lawsuit can significantly impact a company's finances."
Idioms & expressions
File a lawsuit
To formally initiate legal proceedings against someone or something.
"The injured party decided to file a lawsuit against the driver who caused the accident."
Settle a lawsuit
To resolve a legal dispute without going to court.
"The two parties were able to settle the lawsuit before it went to trial."
Litigation is pending
The lawsuit is ongoing
"The litigation is pending and will be decided soon."
From Middle English lauesute, lawe sute ('legal proceedings'), from Old English lagu ('law') and *seoth ('a following, prosecution').
The term 'lawsuit' has been used since the 15th century, evolving from legal terminology to a more common word.
Memory tip
Imagine a judge's gavel slamming down, signaling a formal legal battle.
Practice
Word Origin
Root: law