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

All three quote experts that raise concerns about the evidence, noting that Letby’s conviction stemmed from circumstantial evidence and expert testimony. —Liam Quinn, Peoplemag, 14 July 2024

Those analyses, as well as circumstantial evidence, allowed the DPAA to positively identify Murphy's remains. —Kerry Breen, CBS News, 25 June 2024

There is no smoking gun that identifies the responsible party, though strong circumstantial evidence suggests a Mexican government agency. —Ronald J. Deibert, Foreign Affairs, 12 Dec. 2022

Following a third trial, Baltimore Judge Circuit Judge Charles J. Peters acquitted Johnson in 2018, finding the state’s circumstantial evidence against him was insufficient and that prosecutors had failed to establish a motive. —Cassidy Jensen, Baltimore Sun, 3 July 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1736, in the meaning defined above

Legal Definition

circumstantial evidence

see evidence