sue
Meaning
To initiate legal proceedings against an individual or entity in a court of law, typically seeking compensation for harm or the enforcement of a right, often involving complex legal arguments and the interpretation of statutory or common law.
💡 While "sue" is commonly understood in everyday language, its use in legal contexts requires precision regarding the grounds for litigation and the specific remedies sought; misuse can occur when the term is applied too broadly or without consideration of the legal framework.
Example Sentences
Word in Context
After
weeks
of
courteous
requests
and
unsuccessful
attempts
to
reach
an
agreement
with
the
builder
,
Sarah
felt
increasingly
frustrated
about
the
incomplete
plastering
in
her
kitchen
.
She
documented
every
missed
deadline
and
photographed
the
defects
so
she
would
have
a
clear
record
if
she
needed
to
pursue
formal
action
.
Her
neighbour
recommended
she
consult
a
solicitor
to
weigh
whether
to
sue
,
and
Sarah
spent
an
evening
reading
through
the
contract
to
check
for
breaches
.
Although
the
prospect
of
court
seemed
daunting
,
she
preferred
to
know
her
options
before
agreeing
to
a
reduced
settlement
.
In
the
end
,
after
a
calm
conversation
with
the
builder
and
the
firm
offer
of
a
revised
timeline
,
Sarah
withdrew
the
threat
and
accepted
a
written
commitment
to
finish
the
work
promptly
.
Common Phrases
sue for damages
sue for breach of contract
sue in tort
Synonyms
Related Words
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