Legal Definitions - take the Fifth

Definition: To refuse to answer a question in court in order to avoid incriminating oneself. This is a right protected by the Fifth Amendment of the United States Constitution.

Example: During a trial, a witness is asked if they were involved in the crime. If they believe that answering the question could lead to them being charged with a crime, they can "take the Fifth" and refuse to answer.

Explanation: The example illustrates how someone might use the phrase "take the Fifth" in a legal context. By invoking their right against self-incrimination, they are protecting themselves from being forced to say something that could be used against them in court.