With malice aforethought
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Legal Seriousness
Used to express a severe level of criminal intent in legal contexts, often related to murder charges. 
The defendant was charged with malice aforethought, underlining the seriousness of the crime.
Pro Tip 2/3Cultural Resonance
Common in legal dramas and literature for historical authenticity, as the term dates back to older legal systems. 
In the novel, the villain's crime was described with malice aforethought, echoing legal language of the past.
Pro Tip 3/3Not Casual
It's a formal legal term; avoid using it casually or jokingly due to its strong connotations. 
He jokingly said I ate his cake with malice aforethought, but it didn't really suit the situation.