probable cause

noun

: a reasonable ground for supposing that a charge is well-founded

Examples of probable cause in a Sentence

The lawyer argued that there was a lack of probable cause for a search warrant.

The police had probable cause to arrest him.

Recent Examples on the Web

The grand jury report has come to light regarding the Hope Florida public fraud with significant probable cause that a crime was committed — but no recommendation to prosecute. — Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 7 Sep. 2026

It was later found that Bossell had assaulted a Platte City police officer just days before the attack, with the probable cause statement claiming she should be considered a danger to the public. — Ben Wheeler, Kansas City Star, 5 Sep. 2026

According to a probable cause affidavit, the former campaign manager gave local police a black nylon glove that Ross is alleged to have provided in June. — Ava Kelley, NBC news, 4 Sep. 2026

He then allegedly was estimated to be driving 130 mph by a Sunrise Police Department officer while fleeing a traffic stop on the Sawgrass Expressway, according to a Sunrise Police Department probable cause affidavit. — Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 4 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1676, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for probable cause

• magnetopause
• ahs
• baas
• clause
• claws
• coz
• daws
• draws
• flaws
• gauze
• gnaws
• haws

Legal Definition

probable cause

see also:

cause sense 2