How to Say "the accused" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “the accused” is “acusado” — use 'acusado' when referring to a person who has been formally charged with a crime, regardless of whether a trial has begun.
ah-koo-SAH-dohakuˈsaðo
Examples
El abogado defendió al acusado con gran elocuencia.
The lawyer defended the defendant with great eloquence.
El acusado se declaró inocente ante el juez.
The accused declared himself innocent before the judge.
Gender Match
When using 'acusado' as a noun, remember to change the ending and the article to match the person's gender: 'el acusado' (man) vs. 'la acusada' (woman).
pro-seh-SAH-dohpɾoθeˈsaðo
Examples
El procesado se declaró inocente ante el juez.
The accused declared himself innocent before the judge.
Derechos fundamentales del procesado.
Fundamental rights of the defendant.
Los procesados esperan la sentencia definitiva.
The defendants are waiting for the final sentence.
Using 'The' with People
When using this as a person, remember to use 'el' or 'la'. 'El procesado' is a man being tried, and 'la procesada' is a woman.
Not just any suspect
Mistake: “El procesado huyó antes de que llegara la policía.”
Correction: El sospechoso huyó...
Acusado vs. Procesado
Learners often confuse 'acusado' and 'procesado' because both refer to someone facing legal issues. Remember that 'acusado' is broader, simply meaning charged, while 'procesado' implies an ongoing trial.
Related Translations
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