warrant
Definitions
An official document that authorizes the police or another authority to do something, such as make an arrest or search.
授权令，令状（如逮捕令、搜查令）。
A reason or justification for an action or belief.
（行为或信念的）正当理由，依据。
To justify or make something necessary; to deserve.
使……正当；值得，有必要。
To guarantee or promise something formally.
保证，担保。
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedFrom Frankish warand (to guard, vouch for) via Old North French. The core is 'to back something with authority.' That splits into the noun (an authority's official document — arrest warrant) and the verb (to justify or assure — the evidence warrants a closer look).
Root warrant still carries 6 more wordsUsage Guide
Watch the two registers. Legal noun: arrest/search warrant — a formal court document. Formal verb: 'X warrants Y' means X justifies or calls for Y, common in academic and report writing ('the data warrants further study'). The verb is more formal than 'deserve' or 'is worth.'
Example Sentences
- 1.
Police obtained a warrant to search the apartment.
- 2.
The situation is serious enough to warrant immediate action.
- 3.
Nothing in his behavior warranted such harsh punishment.
- 4.
There is no warrant for that assumption.