Take The Fifth (Verb)
Meaning
Refuse to testify by invoking the Fifth Amendment, which states that nobody may be forced to testify as a witness against himself or herself.
Classification
Verbs of telling, asking, ordering, singing.
Examples
- He was advised by his lawyer to take the fifth to avoid self-incrimination during the trial.
- If she was asked about her involvement in the scandal, she would likely take the fifth to protect herself.
- The suspect refused to answer any questions, choosing to take the fifth instead of risking an admission of guilt.
- The accused took the fifth when questioned about the embezzlement, invoking her constitutional right against self-incrimination.
- When faced with the damaging evidence, the defendant decided to take the fifth and remained silent throughout the proceeding.