Hoodlum: meaning, definitions and examples

Often used to describe a young person who engages in minor criminal activities or rowdy behavior, typically in an urban setting.

• The neighborhood was terrorized by a gang of hoodlums.
• Catching those hoodlums spray-painting the wall wasn't easy.

Describes someone who engages in violent criminal activity. It has a strong negative connotation and implies physical aggression.

• The thug threatened the shopkeeper with a knife.
• A group of thugs attacked the travelers on the deserted road.

Typically refers to a young person who regularly engages in minor crimes or socially unacceptable behavior. It has a more formal tone compared to 'hoodlum'.

• Juvenile delinquents often skip school and engage in petty theft.
• The community program aims to help delinquents turn their lives around.

Refers to a member of an organized crime group. It often has a cinematic or dramatic connotation.

• The infamous gangster controlled the entire neighborhood.
• Movies about gangsters often glamorize their lifestyle.

A broad term for anyone who commits a crime, ranging from minor offenses to severe crimes. It is factual and can be used in both formal and informal situations.

• The police arrested the criminal for robbery.
• He turned out to be a career criminal with a long record.

Refers to a person involved in violent or criminal activities, usually in a gang. Often associated with urban environments.

• The police arrested a hoodlum who was vandalizing cars in the neighborhood
• The store owner was tired of the hoodlums causing trouble outside his shop

Refers to someone who often causes trouble, but not necessarily through violent means. Can be used for both minor and major disruptions.

• The teacher had to deal with a troublemaker who kept disrupting the class
• At the family gathering, he was known as the troublemaker

Used for someone who stirs up the emotions of a crowd, often for political reasons. This term can have a negative connotation.

• The politician was accused of being a rabble-rouser
• The rabble-rouser managed to get the crowd to protest

Describes someone or something that causes minor annoyance or inconvenience but not necessarily violent or criminal behavior.

• The barking dog next door is such a nuisance
• The constant noise from the construction site is a real nuisance