Counter-accuse

To accuse someone of wrongdoing in response to an accusation made against oneself. This term is often used in legal contexts or in interpersonal disputes where one party responds to allegations by making similar allegations against the accuser, thereby shifting the focus of the discussion and potentially diminishing the credibility of the initial accuser.

Counter-accuse meaning with examples

• After being accused of embezzlement, the accountant decided to counter-accuse his former employer of tax evasion, claiming ignorance of the company's shady practices.
• During the heated debate, one politician counter-accused his opponent of spreading false information, which led to a further escalation of tensions between their supporters.
• When the teacher confronted the student about cheating on the exam, the student quickly counter-accused the teacher of favoritism and unfair grading policies.
• In response to allegations of harassment, the celebrity chose to counter-accuse the journalist of manipulating the narrative for sensationalism and personal gain.
• During the mediation session, both parties began to counter-accuse each other of contractual violations, making it difficult to reach a resolution.