Felon: meaning, definitions and examples

Used mainly in legal and formal contexts to describe someone who has been convicted of a serious crime.

• The felon received a life sentence for his crimes.
• She is a convicted felon and cannot legally own a firearm.

A general term used to describe anyone who has committed a crime. It can be used in both serious and less formal contexts.

• The police arrested the criminal after a lengthy investigation.
• All criminals must be brought to justice.

Often used in legal and social services contexts to describe a person who has broken the law, regardless of the severity of the crime.

• The first-time offender was given a lighter sentence.
• Sex offenders are required to register with the authorities.

Commonly used to refer to someone who has been found guilty of a crime and is serving their sentence.

• The convict was transferred to a maximum-security prison.
• As a convict, he has limited job opportunities.

Use this term in legal or formal contexts to refer to someone who has committed a serious crime, often punishable by imprisonment for more than a year.

• The court sentenced the felon to ten years in prison.
• He was convicted as a felon for armed robbery.

This term is a more neutral or informal way to describe someone who violates laws. It does not necessarily imply the severity of the crime.

• The mayor warned against becoming a lawbreaker by ignoring the new regulations.
• A lawbreaker was fined for parking in a no-parking zone.

This word is often used to describe minors who commit minor crimes or engage in unlawful behavior. It has a less severe connotation than 'felon'.

• The school aims to support students who are at risk of becoming delinquents.
• Her son was labeled as a juvenile delinquent after repeated shoplifting incidents.

Use this term in moral or ethical discussions to describe someone who engages in unethical, immoral, or illegal activities. It is less legalistic and more subjective.

• The community shunned the wrongdoer for his dishonest actions.
• The wrongdoer was eventually forgiven after making amends.