criminal

word

/ˈkɹɪmənəɫ/
KRIM-uh-nuhl
/kɹˈɪmɪnəl/
KRIM-i-nuhl

Definition

A criminal is a person who commits a crime. It can also describe something related to crime or the law that deals with crime.

Usage & Nuances

As a noun, 'criminal' means a lawbreaker and is common in news and legal contexts. As an adjective, it appears in phrases like 'criminal law', 'criminal case', and 'criminal record'. Don't confuse it with 'crime' (the act) or 'convict' (someone found guilty in court).

Example Sentences

The police caught the criminal last night.

basic

She does not have a criminal record.

basic

They are studying criminal law at school.

basic

Using other people's photos without permission can get criminal charges in some cases.

natural

That guy looks friendly, but he turned out to be a criminal.

natural

He made one stupid mistake, but that doesn't mean he's a criminal.

natural