Crime

Definition

Crime is a noun that refers to an act or action that violates the laws or rules of a community, state, or nation and is punishable by legal penalties. It encompasses a broad range of actions deemed harmful or disruptive to society, such as theft, assault, and fraud.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kraɪm/
• Respelling: KRYM

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kraɪm/
• Respelling: KRYM

Etymology

The word "crime" originates from the Old French "crimne," derived from the Latin "crimen," meaning "accusation, charge, or offense." The term evolved to signify actions against the law and entered English in the late Middle Ages.

Derivatives

• Criminal (noun/adjective)
• Criminology (noun)
• Criminalize (verb)
• Crime-ridden (adjective)
• Decriminalize (verb)

Synonyms

• Offense
• Violation
• Felony

Antonyms

• Innocence
• Lawfulness
• Legality

Usage

The term "crime" is used to denote actions or behaviors that violate legal standards and are subject to punishment, as in "He was convicted of a serious crime." It is a broad concept that covers various legal categories, from misdemeanors to felonies.

Related Terms

• Justice: The legal process of determining guilt or innocence and ensuring fair punishment for crime.
• Law: The system of rules a society follows to regulate behavior and enforce order.
• Judiciary: The branch of government responsible for interpreting the law and administering justice in criminal cases.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• An action or activity that is against the law: Refers to acts that violate legal statutes and are punishable by governmental authority.
  • Example: "Theft is considered a crime in all societies."
• A specific offense, particularly serious ones: Often used to refer to major legal violations, like felonies.
  • Example: "He was charged with a violent crime."