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Delinquency Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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delinquency

[dɪˈlɪŋkwənsi ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

youth crime prevention

Delinquency refers to minor criminal behavior, typically committed by young people. It includes actions such as vandalism, theft, and drug abuse. Delinquency is often linked to factors like family environment, peer pressure, and socioeconomic status.

Synonyms

misconduct, transgression, wrongdoing.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
delinquency

Typically used to describe minor criminal activities or failures in responsibility, especially by young people.

  • The rise in juvenile delinquency is concerning to community leaders.
  • Truancy and petty theft are common forms of delinquency among teenagers.
misconduct

Refers to improper or unacceptable behavior, often in a professional or formal setting.

  • The employee was fired for gross misconduct.
  • The teacher reported the student's misconduct during the exam.
wrongdoing

A general term for any unethical or illegal behavior, often used in both personal and professional contexts.

  • She was accused of wrongdoing in her financial dealings.
  • The investigation aims to uncover any wrongdoing by the officials.
transgression

Indicates a serious violation or breach of a law, moral code, or established rules.

  • His actions were considered a transgression against the community’s values.
  • The transgressions of the company resulted in numerous fines.

Examples of usage

  • The community implemented programs to reduce delinquency rates among teenagers.
  • Parents play a crucial role in preventing juvenile delinquency.
Context #2 | Noun

financial

Delinquency in the context of finances refers to failure to meet payment obligations on time. This can apply to loans, credit cards, or bills. Delinquency can result in penalties, damaged credit scores, and legal action.

Synonyms

default, nonpayment, overdue.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
delinquency

Best used to describe a minor offense or failure to do something required, often related to payments or juvenile crimes.

  • His chronic delinquency in paying his rent led to his eviction.
  • The community is working to reduce juvenile delinquency through various programs.
default

Commonly used in legal and financial contexts to refer to failing to meet obligations, especially loans or other financial agreements.

  • She was worried about the potential of default on her student loans.
  • The company went into default when it missed three consecutive mortgage payments.
nonpayment

Used to specify situations where payment has not been made, without implying a frequency or pattern. Often seen in formal or financial contexts.

  • He received a notice for the nonpayment of his latest utility bill.
  • Nonpayment of taxes can result in significant penalties.
overdue

Indicates that a payment or task is past its due date. Commonly used in everyday situations related to bills, library books, or tasks.

  • Your library book is overdue; please return it as soon as possible.
  • She has several overdue bills that need to be paid immediately.

Examples of usage

  • The bank warned the customer about the consequences of loan delinquency.
  • Credit card delinquency can lead to high interest rates.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Studies show that most delinquent behavior arises from a mix of environmental factors and individual choices.
  • Peer influence plays a significant role; teenagers are more likely to engage in delinquent acts when surrounded by friends who do the same.
  • The presence of strong family bonds can reduce the likelihood of developing delinquent behaviors among adolescents.

Legal Context

  • In many legal systems, 'delinquency' refers specifically to offenses committed by minors, distinguishing them from adult crimes.
  • Juvenile courts often handle cases of delinquency, focusing more on rehabilitation than punishment.
  • The types of acts considered delinquent can range from minor offenses, like truancy, to serious crimes.

Sociology

  • Delinquency is often studied in the context of social structures, with factors such as poverty and community support impacting delinquent rates.
  • Trends in delinquency can reflect broader societal issues, including economic downturns and shifts in family stability.
  • Research indicates that marginalized communities may have higher rates of delinquency due to fewer opportunities and resources.

Pop Culture

  • Delinquency has been a popular theme in movies and books, often portraying the struggles of troubled youth, such as in films like 'The Outsiders.'
  • Characters who exhibit delinquent behavior are frequently depicted as rebels, often challenging authority or societal norms.
  • Music genres like punk often draw inspiration from themes of rebellion and delinquency, resonating with youth cultures.

Origin of 'delinquency'

Main points about word origin

  • Originates from the Latin word 'delinquere,' which means 'to fail' or 'to abandon.'
  • The word evolved in the 16th century to describe failures in behavior, particularly among youth.

The word 'delinquency' originated from the Latin word 'delinquentia', which means failure or fault. In the legal context, it was first used to describe criminal behavior in the 17th century. Over time, the term expanded to include financial noncompliance as well. Today, 'delinquency' is widely used in both legal and financial domains to refer to various forms of nonconformity or failure to meet obligations.

See also: delinquent.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,049 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.