judicial
adj. · n.-
1 relating to courts and judges (adj.) B2 Upper Intermediate Lawrelated to the legal system, the work of judges, or the administration of justice.
pertaining to the judiciary, the administration of justice, or the functions of a judge.
ExampleThe country's judicial system is independent from the political leaders.
ExampleThe supreme court exercised its power of judicial review to determine whether the new legislation was consistent with constitutional principles.
UsageOften used in fixed phrases like 'judicial system', 'judicial review', or 'judicial branch'.
- legal
- juridical
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2 careful and critical (adj.) C1 Advanced Formalshowing very careful thought or judgment, often when criticizing something.
characterised by or expressing careful judgment or critical evaluation.
ExampleThe critic gave a judicial assessment of the new play.
ExampleA judicial mind is required to weigh the conflicting evidence presented in such a complex historical debate.
Teacher's tipIn modern English, 'judicious' is more common for 'wise/sensible', while 'judicial' usually stays strictly within legal contexts.
- judicious
- critical
- discerning
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3 the branch of government (n.) C1 Advanced Formal Lawthe part of a government that includes the courts and judges.
the branch of government responsible for maintaining the courts of law and the administration of justice.
ExampleThe power of the judicial is balanced by the power of the president.
ExampleThe independence of the judicial is a cornerstone of democratic governance, ensuring that the law is applied without political interference.
UsageUsually functions as a collective noun; 'the judiciary' is more frequent in general-service English.
Borrowed from Latin iūdiciālis.