Delinquent Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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delinquent
[dษชหlษชลkwษnt ]
Definitions
behavior
Failing to do what the law or duty requires; overdue in payment.
Synonyms
culpable, irresponsible, negligent.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| delinquent |
Often used to describe someone, especially a young person, who regularly engages in minor criminal activities or fails to fulfill social responsibilities. Has a relatively informal tone and can carry a negative connotation.
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| negligent |
Used in both legal and everyday contexts to describe someone who fails to take the necessary care or fulfill their duties, often leading to harm or risk. It generally carries a strong negative connotation.
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| culpable |
Typically used in a formal or legal context to denote someone who is deserving of blame for a particular wrongdoing. It carries a strong negative connotation and implies responsibility for a fault or crime.
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| irresponsible |
Describes someone who does not take responsibility or care for their actions or duties. It has a negative connotation and is used in both formal and informal settings.
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Examples of usage
- He was declared delinquent for not paying his taxes on time.
- The company is facing penalties for delinquent behavior.
person
A person, typically young, who has a tendency to commit crimes or engage in antisocial behavior.
Synonyms
criminal, offender, troublemaker.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| delinquent |
Used primarily to describe young people who engage in minor illegal activities or behaviors that deviate from societal norms.
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| offender |
Generally used in legal contexts to describe someone who has broken a law, regardless of the severity of the crime. It can also be used in a rehabilitative context.
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| criminal |
Refers to someone who has committed a serious crime. This term can be used in both formal and informal contexts and often has a negative connotation.
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| troublemaker |
Used informally to describe someone who frequently causes minor problems or disturbances. It can be applied to both children and adults.
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Examples of usage
- The delinquent was arrested for vandalism.
- The school is implementing programs to prevent students from becoming delinquents.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Research shows that various factors contribute to delinquency, including family dynamics, peer influence, and socioeconomic status.
- Emotional challenges and lack of support can lead youth to engage in riskier behaviors.
- Programs that teach conflict resolution and social skills can effectively reduce delinquent behavior.
Society
- In many countries, juvenile delinquency is a significant concern, prompting discussions on rehabilitation versus punishment.
- Authorities often seek to understand community context, as neighborhoods can impact youth behavior significantly.
- The term also arises in discussions about the juvenile justice system, which focuses on rehabilitation rather than purely punitive measures.
Pop Culture
- The term is often depicted in films and literature, highlighting the struggles of young characters facing societal issues.
- Famous works like 'The Outsiders' by S.E. Hinton explore themes of adolescence and delinquency.
- Music genres like punk and hip-hop sometimes address issues related to delinquency, reflecting the artists' experiences and societal critiques.
Education
- Schools often implement programs aimed at reducing delinquency by fostering positive relationships and providing mentorship.
- Academic performance is frequently linked to behavior, with improved school engagement showing potential to curb delinquent actions.
- Education policies are increasingly focused on addressing the root causes of delinquency rather than just punishment.
Origin of 'delinquent'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from Latin 'delinquere,' meaning 'to fail' or 'to offend.'
- It first appeared in English around the 15th century, originally describing a person who fell short of expected behavior.
- The meaning has evolved to specifically refer to behavior that breaks laws or social norms.
The word 'delinquent' originated from the Latin word 'delinquere', which means 'to fail' or 'to be lacking'. Over time, its usage evolved to refer to individuals who fail to meet legal or moral obligations. The term gained prominence in the context of law enforcement and juvenile justice systems, where 'delinquent' is used to describe individuals who have committed criminal acts or exhibit antisocial behavior.
See also: delinquency.