With malice aforethought

usgb
adverb

This phrase means to do something intentionally, knowing that it is harmful or illegal.

The judge found him guilty of murder, saying he acted with malice aforethought.
Visual representation of "with malice aforethought" - This phrase means to do something intentionally, knowing that it is harmful or illegal.

Often appears as...

  • acted with malice aforethought
  • charged with malice aforethought

Usage tips

Formal

Technical

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "with malice aforethought"
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Legal Seriousness

Used to express a severe level of criminal intent in legal contexts, often related to murder charges.

Illustration for Legal Seriousness
The defendant was charged with malice aforethought, underlining the seriousness of the crime.
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Cultural Resonance

Common in legal dramas and literature for historical authenticity, as the term dates back to older legal systems.

Illustration for Cultural Resonance
In the novel, the villain's crime was described with malice aforethought, echoing legal language of the past.
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Not Casual

It's a formal legal term; avoid using it casually or jokingly due to its strong connotations.

Illustration for Not Casual
He jokingly said I ate his cake with malice aforethought, but it didn't really suit the situation.
Visual representation of the word "With malice aforethought"

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