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.

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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

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Etymology

Origin of probable cause

First recorded in 1670–80

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

probable cause

"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

And, to conduct that search, the police are going to need to prove probable cause that a crime occurred and that you were involved in it.

From Slate ● Jul. 1, 2026

In order for charges to be filed, prosecutors would have to convince a grand jury, made up of members of the public, that probable cause exists to believe a crime has been committed.

From BBC ● May 16, 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