告訴する

• Reading: こくそする
• Romaji: kokuso suru
• Kanji breakdown: 告 (koku) — tell, announce, accuse; 訴 (so) — sue, appeal, complain
• Pronunciation: /ko.kɯ.so.sɯ.ɾɯ/

Meaning

To file a lawsuit; to prosecute; to press charges. To formally accuse someone of a crime through legal proceedings.

A suru-verb used in legal contexts meaning to file criminal charges or a lawsuit against someone. Specifically, 告訴 refers to a crime victim (or their representative) filing a complaint with investigative authorities requesting prosecution. Distinguished from 告発 (kokuhatsu, reporting a crime by a third party) and 訴える (uttaeru, a broader term for suing). Common patterns include 告訴状 (kokuso-jou, written complaint), 告訴を取り下げる (to withdraw charges).

Examples

1. 被害者は犯人を詐欺罪で告訴した。 The victim pressed charges against the perpetrator for fraud.
2. 名誉毀損で告訴すると弁護士に相談した。 I consulted a lawyer about filing a defamation lawsuit.
3. 告訴を取り下げるよう説得された。 I was persuaded to drop the charges.

Usage Guide

Context: legal proceedings, crime reports, news

Tone: serious

Origin & History

From Sino-Japanese: 告 (koku, tell/announce/accuse) + 訴 (so, sue/appeal/complain). Together 'to announce an accusation' — formally bringing charges against someone.

Cultural Context

Era: Pre-modern

Generation: Adults

Social background: Professional