probable cause

American  

noun

Law.

1. reasonable ground for a belief, as, in a criminal case, that the accused was guilty of the crime, or, in a civil case, that grounds for the action existed: used especially as a defense to an action for malicious prosecution.

---

probable cause British  

noun

1. law reasonable grounds for holding a belief, esp such as will justify bringing legal proceedings against a person or will constitute a defence to a charge of malicious prosecution

---

Etymology

Origin of probable cause

First recorded in 1670–80

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

probable cause

Jaafri's probable cause of death was given by the hospital and medical examiner as bronchopneumonia due to flu and frailty.

From BBC ● Aug. 18, 2026

If there was a minor traffic infraction or other probable cause to make a stop, proving their motive requires them to confess to acting with intent to discriminate, Willis said.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 24, 2026

"We believe we will more than accomplish the evidentiary burden of probable cause at this point to hold David to answer on these three felony charges," Hochman told the press.

From Barron's ● Jul. 21, 2026

Prosecutors would need to show they have adequate evidence to establish probable cause and proceed toward trial.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 6, 2026

With chagrin, I realized the probable cause — no one else was as aware of Edward as I always was.

From "Twilight" by Stephenie Meyer