Meaning of the word "file a suit against" in English

What does "file a suit against" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

file a suit against

US /faɪl ə suːt əˈɡɛnst/
UK /faɪl ə suːt əˈɡɛnst/

Idiom

to initiate legal proceedings against someone or an organization

Example:
The company decided to file a suit against their former employee for breach of contract.
They threatened to file a suit against the city for damages caused by the construction.