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

Jurors accepted the state's narrative, convicting Duckett of murder largely based on circumstantial evidence and recommending the death penalty. —Amanda Lee Myers, USA Today, 31 Mar. 2026

But Duckett’s attorneys have long argued that he was convicted on circumstantial evidence. —Martin E. Comas, The Orlando Sentinel, 27 Mar. 2026

Cases based on direct evidence are not necessarily stronger than those that rely on circumstantial evidence, legal experts said. —Nicki Brown, CNN Money, 18 Mar. 2026

When we get involved in a case part of our job is to identify the strengths and the weaknesses of the prosecution … this is a case that involved a lot of circumstantial evidence. —Marcelena Spencer, CBS News, 15 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1679, in the meaning defined above

Legal Definition

circumstantial evidence

see also:

evidence