circumstantial evidence

American  

noun

1. proof of facts offered as evidence from which other facts are to be inferred (contrasted with direct evidence).

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circumstantial evidence British  

noun

1. indirect evidence that tends to establish a conclusion by inference Compare direct evidence

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Etymology

Origin of circumstantial evidence

First recorded in 1730–40

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

circumstantial evidence

The prosecutors built much of their case on circumstantial evidence.

From Slate ● Sep. 17, 2026

As investigators awaited the results of the DNA test, they gathered circumstantial evidence.

From Slate ● Sep. 17, 2026

In recent interviews, Spielberg has said he now considers the circumstantial evidence for UFOs “overwhelming” and no longer views “Disclosure Day” as science fiction at all.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 11, 2026

Five witnesses gave indirect circumstantial evidence that supported Murley's claim he was not taken seriously.

From BBC ● Jan. 22, 2026

All around, she and others found circumstantial evidence of a changed man.

From "The Big Short" by Michael Lewis

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