Criminals: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is often used in legal contexts to refer to someone who has been convicted of a crime. It can be used to describe someone who commits a minor or serious offense.

• First-time offenders might receive a lighter sentence
• The new policy focuses on rehabilitating young offenders

This term refers to someone who disobeys the law. It is often used in a general sense and can point to minor or major legal offenses.

• They introduced stricter penalties for lawbreakers to reduce traffic violations
• Lawbreakers will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law

This word is often used to indicate the person who is responsible for a specific crime or misdeed. It can sometimes be used in a less formal or even humorous context.

• The police caught the culprit who vandalized the school
• The dog's guilty look made it clear he was the culprit who chewed the shoes

General term for people who commit any kind of crime. Suitable for use in most contexts, including formal and informal settings.

• The criminals were arrested by the police last night.
• Many criminals are held in this prison.

Often used to refer to young offenders or people who are consistently involved in minor crimes or antisocial behavior.

• The city has programs to help delinquent youths get back on track.
• He was labeled a delinquent for shoplifting.

A more formal or literary term for someone who commits a crime or wrong. Can have a somewhat archaic or dramatic feel.

• The malefactor behind the scheme was finally caught.
• In classic literature, a malefactor is often portrayed as the villain of the story.

Specifically refers to someone who has been convicted of a serious crime or felony. Usually used in legal or formal contexts.

• After the trial, the felon was sentenced to ten years in prison.
• Employers often do background checks to avoid hiring a felon.