Complicity: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is used when someone is involved in something illegal or wrong. It often has a negative connotation.

• Her complicity in the robbery was undeniable.
• He was charged with complicity in the embezzlement scheme.

This word is used to describe being part of or participating in an activity or situation. It can have neutral, positive, or negative connotations depending on the context.

• Her involvement in community service is highly commendable.
• His involvement in the project was crucial to its success.
• The investigation is looking into his involvement in the scandal.

This word is used when people work together on a project or task, usually in a productive or creative way. It has a neutral to positive connotation.

• The collaboration between the two companies resulted in a groundbreaking new product.
• Their collaboration on the research paper was highly praised by their peers.

This word is used when people secretly plan something illegal or harmful. It has a strongly negative connotation.

• The police uncovered a conspiracy to smuggle drugs into the country.
• She was arrested for her role in the conspiracy to commit fraud.

Complicity is used when someone is involved in illegal or wrong activities, usually when they help or encourage others in wrongdoing.

• Her complicity in the robbery surprised everyone.
• The investigation revealed his complicity in the conspiracy.

Guilt is the feeling or acknowledgment of having done something wrong or committing an offense. It can be used in both legal and emotional contexts.

• He couldn't escape the guilt he felt after lying.
• Her guilt was clear from her behavior during the trial.

Culpability refers to the degree of responsibility for a fault or wrong; it's often used in legal contexts to discuss how responsible someone is for a crime.

• The court discussed his culpability in the accident.
• She denied any culpability in the fraud case.

An accomplice is a person who takes part in a crime with someone else, often providing help or support.

• The thief and his accomplice were both arrested.
• She acted as the accomplice by driving the getaway car.