as in detailed
including many small descriptive features
the circumstantial account of his surgery told us more than we really wanted to know about the stomach
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Recent Examples of circumstantial
In the decades since his conviction and death sentence, almost every pillar of the circumstantial case against him has crumbled.
—
Orlando Sentinel Editorial Board, The Orlando Sentinel, 3 Apr. 2026
Unlike direct evidence, such as eyewitnesses or recordings of a crime, circumstantial cases require jurors to determine a defendant’s guilt by weaving together indirect evidence.
—Nicki Brown, CNN Money, 18 Mar. 2026
During closing arguments last week, prosecutors acknowledged the evidence presented in the case was circumstantial.
—Grethel Aguila, Miami Herald, 4 Mar. 2026
My evidence was circumstantial at best—very dark hair, a certain visual intensity, and, admittedly, intuition doing most of the heavy lifting.
—Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 26 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for circumstantial
Orlando Sentinel Editorial Board, The Orlando Sentinel, 3 Apr. 2026
Unlike direct evidence, such as eyewitnesses or recordings of a crime, circumstantial cases require jurors to determine a defendant’s guilt by weaving together indirect evidence.
—Nicki Brown, CNN Money, 18 Mar. 2026
During closing arguments last week, prosecutors acknowledged the evidence presented in the case was circumstantial.
—Grethel Aguila, Miami Herald, 4 Mar. 2026
My evidence was circumstantial at best—very dark hair, a certain visual intensity, and, admittedly, intuition doing most of the heavy lifting.
—Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 26 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for circumstantial
Recent Examples of Synonyms for circumstantial
Adjective
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The company says detailed specifications and manufacturer pricing will be revealed closer to launch.—
Peter Lyon,
Forbes.com,
13 June 2026
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Four ultra-wide-angle cameras equipped with high-dynamic-range lenses continuously monitor its surroundings, while front and rear LiDAR sensors generate detailed three-dimensional maps.—
Rupendra Brahambhatt,
Interesting Engineering,
13 June 2026
Adjective
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Detectives with the Arlington Police Department’s Crimes Against Children Unit conducted a thorough investigation, according to police, and obtained a warrant for Reyna’s arrest.—
Harriet Ramos,
Fort Worth Star-Telegram,
13 June 2026
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Footwear News’ global network of editors has carefully curated all product selections featured using our expansive brand knowledge and thorough research to find quality, long-lasting items.—
Stacia Datskovska,
Footwear News,
12 June 2026
Adjective
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The low-wing, single-engine turboprop plane was not able to make it to full power, according to officials with the Bates County Emergency Management Agency.—
Ben Wheeler,
Kansas City Star,
15 June 2026
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Dutch find separating goal to regain control With Japan in full control of momentum after the quick answer, the Netherlands parlayed a swing of possession into a winner in the 64th minute.—
Nick Harris,
Fort Worth Star-Telegram,
15 June 2026
Cite this Entry
“Circumstantial.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/circumstantial. Accessed 16 Jun. 2026.
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