
Implicate
Negative Connotation
Implying guilt or responsibility, often without direct proof, and usually in negative situations.
The rumors implicated him in the fraud scandal, although he denied it.
Legal Usage
Common in legal contexts to suggest involvement in crime or wrongdoing.
Witnesses implicated the suspect during the trial.
Cautious Accusation
Used to suggest someone's involvement indirectly, allowing for some doubt.
The report doesn't directly blame him but implicates his policies.