Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Criminality: meaning, definitions and examples

🔫
Add to dictionary

criminality

 

[ ˌkrɪmɪˈnælɪti ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

crime rate in a society

Criminality refers to the prevalence of crime within a society or community. It is the state or quality of being inclined to commit crimes or illegal activities.

Synonyms

crime rate, delinquency, lawlessness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
criminality

Used to describe the quality of being criminal or engaging in criminal activities on a general level.

  • The increase in criminality in the city is alarming.
  • Efforts to reduce criminality have shown positive results.
crime rate

Refers to the number of reported crimes in a specific area during a given time period. Often used in discussions about public safety and statistical reports.

  • The crime rate in the neighborhood has decreased significantly.
  • Officials are working hard to bring down the crime rate.
delinquency

Often used to describe minor crimes, typically committed by young people. It can also refer to neglect of duties or obligations.

  • Juvenile delinquency is a growing concern for the community.
  • Programs aimed at reducing youth delinquency have been implemented.
lawlessness

Describes a situation where laws are not followed or enforced, often leading to chaos and disorder. This term has a negative connotation.

  • The region was plunged into lawlessness after the government collapsed.
  • The town was known for its lawlessness and frequent conflicts.

Examples of usage

  • The high level of criminality in the city has prompted the authorities to increase police presence.
  • Social factors such as poverty and unemployment can contribute to the rise in criminality.
  • Reducing criminality requires a combination of law enforcement and social programs.
  • Studies have shown a correlation between drug abuse and criminality.
  • Efforts to combat criminality should focus on addressing root causes.

Translations

Translations of the word "criminality" in other languages:

🇵🇹 criminalidade

🇮🇳 अपराधिता

🇩🇪 Kriminalität

🇮🇩 kriminalitas

🇺🇦 злочинність

🇵🇱 przestępczość

🇯🇵 犯罪性 (はんざいせい)

🇫🇷 criminalité

🇪🇸 criminalidad

🇹🇷 suçluluk

🇰🇷 범죄성 (범죄율)

🇸🇦 إجرامية

🇨🇿 kriminalita

🇸🇰 kriminalita

🇨🇳 犯罪 (fànzuì)

🇸🇮 kriminaliteta

🇮🇸 glæpastarfsemi

🇰🇿 қылмыскерлік

🇬🇪 კრიმინალობა

🇦🇿 cinayətkarlıq

🇲🇽 criminalidad

Etymology

The term 'criminality' originated in the mid-19th century, derived from the word 'criminal' which has roots in Latin. It has been used to describe the rate of crime and unlawful behavior in various societies. The concept of criminality has evolved over time, influenced by social, economic, and political factors. Understanding and addressing criminality remains a complex challenge for law enforcement and policymakers.

See also: criminals.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,510, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.