Testimony Meaning
Testimony Definition & Usage
A formal statement or declaration given as evidence or as a proof of something, typically in a legal setting.
Examples
- "The witness provided critical testimony that helped convict the defendant."
- "Her testimony in court was crucial for the outcome of the trial."
- "The defendant's testimony contradicted the evidence presented by the prosecution."
- "He gave a heartfelt testimony about his experiences in the war."
- "The attorney called several witnesses to provide testimony in favor of his case."
A personal account of an individual's experiences, beliefs, or views, often shared publicly.
Examples
- "The speaker shared a moving testimony of overcoming addiction."
- "Her testimony at the church service inspired many in the congregation."
- "I heard his testimony about how faith changed his life."
- "The author's testimony in the book reveals her struggles and triumphs."
- "During the meeting, he gave a testimony of how the project changed his perspective on work."
Cultural Context
The word 'testimony' originates from Latin 'testimonium,' meaning a witness or a declaration made under oath. In legal contexts, it refers to statements made by witnesses, typically under oath, to establish facts or support a case. The concept is central to judicial systems worldwide. Outside of the courtroom, the word is used in personal, religious, and public settings to describe an individual's statement or declaration of personal experience, belief, or truth.
The Witness's Testimony
Story
The Witness's Testimony
It was a rainy Tuesday morning when Lily walked into the courthouse, her heart pounding. She had been called to testify in the high-profile case that had captured the attention of the entire city. As she stepped up to the witness stand, she felt the weight of the moment. Her testimony would either confirm or disprove the defendant's alibi, a fact that had been debated for weeks. The prosecutor, a stern man named Mr. Green, glanced at her with a nod before beginning the questioning. "Ms. Jenkins, you were at the scene of the crime on the night of the robbery, correct?" Mr. Green's voice echoed through the courtroom. Lily swallowed nervously and nodded. "Yes, I was there. I was a witness." Her testimony began with a clear recollection of the events she had witnessed. She described the night, the people involved, and the sounds she had heard. Each word she spoke was important, her voice steady despite the nerves that threatened to overwhelm her. Her testimony was crucial, the foundation on which the entire case rested. As the defense lawyer, a man named Mr. Cooper, began his cross-examination, Lily was ready for the challenge. She had practiced her story, ensuring that every detail was accurate. But the questions grew tougher. Mr. Cooper accused her of exaggerating certain details, of possibly misremembering what she had seen. Her heart raced as she tried to remain calm and focused. Then, unexpectedly, the defense shifted tactics. Mr. Cooper turned to the jury and shared a personal testimony about his own life, his values, and how he believed in second chances. The room was momentarily taken aback. While his testimony was not related to the case, it resonated with the jury, reminding them that every person has a story to tell. Lily was able to remain composed, recounting her testimony once again, this time with even more conviction. After the trial, her testimony, along with the evidence presented, helped secure the conviction of the defendant. The experience left Lily feeling both relieved and reflective. It wasn’t just about providing the facts; it was about sharing a piece of herself, her personal account of what she had witnessed. And in the days that followed, she realized her testimony wasn’t just a legal statement—it was her story, her truth.
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