hoodlum
word
Definition
A hoodlum is a person, often a young man, who engages in criminal behavior, vandalism, or violence; someone seen as a troublemaker or street thug.
Usage & Nuances
"Hoodlum" is informal and slightly old-fashioned in American English. It often describes young, lower-level criminals or street gang members. Similar words: "thug," "delinquent." Rarely used formally or in police/legal language.
Example Sentences
The police caught a hoodlum breaking windows.
basic
A group of hoodlums stole bikes from the park.
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The teacher warned the students not to act like hoodlums.
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Don’t let those hoodlums intimidate you on your way home.
natural
Those two look like a couple of hoodlums hanging out on the corner.
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Everyone in the neighborhood is tired of the local hoodlums causing trouble.
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