What does the term "impeachment" refer to?

The term "impeachment" specifically refers to the formal accusation of a government official, most commonly a President, of misconduct. This process is outlined in the Constitution and involves the House of Representatives bringing charges against the official, which can lead to a trial in the Senate. If the official is convicted by a two-thirds majority in the Senate, they can be removed from office.

While impeachment often leads to the removal of a President, it's crucial to highlight that impeachment itself is not the act of removal but rather the initial step of bringing charges. This distinguishes it from the broader procedure of removing someone from office, as the actual removal is contingent upon the results of the trial that follows the impeachment.

Understanding this distinction clarifies why the correct choice focuses on the formal accusation aspect, which is a foundational component of the impeachment process.