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freisprechen

to acquit

verb FREYE-shpre-khen Rare

Usage Note

freisprechen is a separable verb meaning to acquit, splitting as spricht frei. The grounds take von: von allen Vorwuerfen freisprechen (to acquit of all charges). The resulting outcome is a Freispruch. It contrasts directly with verurteilen.

Examples

"Die Richter sprachen die Angeklagte frei."

Natural Translation

The judges acquitted the defendant.

Literal Translation

The judges spoke the defendant free.

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