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self-incrimination
[ self-in-krim-uh-ney-shuhn, self- ]
noun
- the act of incriminating oneself or exposing oneself to prosecution, especially by giving evidence or testimony.
self-incrimination
- Being forced or coerced to testify against oneself. Self-incrimination is prohibited by the Fifth Amendment to the United States Constitution .
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Notes
Prohibiting self-incrimination not only helps guarantee due process of law , but also maintains one of the basic principles of American law by putting the burden of proof on the prosecution. ( See also Miranda decision .)
Under this principle, a person may choose (given certain restrictions) to “take the Fifth,” refusing to testify in court or before a legislative or executive committee.
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Word History and Origins
Origin of self-incrimination1
First recorded in 1920–25
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Example Sentences
The Fifth Amendment most famously protects against self-incrimination.
From The Daily Beast
Bbrarkk Jjoknyyegg Kekeke immediately took refuge in refusal to answer on grounds of self-incrimination.
From Project Gutenberg
So was another principal witness, who, however, might decline to testify because of the danger of self-incrimination.
From Project Gutenberg
It is what the lawyers would describe as the most conspicuous instance of self-incrimination on record.
From Project Gutenberg
In flying from Jane he fled from the self-incrimination she planted in him.
From Project Gutenberg
A man could not refuse to answer on the grounds of self-incrimination.
From Project Gutenberg
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