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

Because there was no body, the case was built on circumstantial evidence. — Alex Riggins, San Diego Union-Tribune, 9 July 2026

That and a cascade of circumstantial evidence led to him being convicted of the crime in 2010. — Taylor Croft, AJC.com, 6 July 2026

The confession comes after Jubillar was convicted of murder and sentenced to 30 years in prison based largely on circumstantial evidence. — Christina Coulter, PEOPLE, 6 July 2026

There is also another important piece of circumstantial evidence from the broadcasts themselves. — Dan Zaksheske Outkick, FOXNews.com, 12 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1679, in the meaning defined above

Legal Definition

circumstantial evidence

see also:

evidence