Infraction: meaning, definitions and examples

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infraction

 

[ ɪnˈfrækʃən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

legal term

An infraction is a violation or breaking of a rule or law. It is a minor offense that usually results in a fine rather than jail time. Infractions are often traffic violations or other minor breaches of regulations.

Synonyms

breach, offense, violation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
infraction

Use in legal or formal contexts to refer to minor or petty violations of rules or laws.

  • The student received a warning for his infraction of the school dress code.
  • Speeding tickets are given for infractions of traffic laws.
violation

Use in both legal and informal contexts to describe breaking rules, laws, or norms; can be used for serious or minor issues.

  • Parking in a no-parking zone is a violation of local laws.
  • The company faced fines for violations of environmental regulations.
breach

Use when describing a break or failure in a more formal or contractual setting, often referring to agreements or security.

  • There was a serious breach of security at the airport.
  • The company is suing for breach of contract.
offense

Use to describe actions that go against moral or social codes; often carries a negative connotation.

  • Stealing from a store is considered a serious offense.
  • He was arrested for committing an offense against public order.

Examples of usage

  • The police officer issued a ticket for the infraction of speeding.
  • Jaywalking is considered an infraction in some cities.
  • If you commit an infraction, you may have to pay a fine.
Context #2 | Noun

school setting

In a school setting, an infraction refers to a minor rule violation by a student. It can range from tardiness to failure to complete homework. Schools often have a system of consequences for different types of infractions.

Synonyms

breach, offense, violation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
infraction

Usually used in legal or formal settings to describe minor violations of rules or laws. It often indicates a less severe wrongdoing.

  • Speeding is considered a minor infraction.
  • The player was fined for the infraction of the game rules.
violation

Used in legal, regulatory, and everyday contexts to describe breaking a rule, law, or agreement. Covers a wide range of severities.

  • Parking in a handicapped spot without a permit is a violation.
  • The factory was fined for environmental violations.
breach

Typically used to describe a serious violation or breaking of a contract, trust, or law. Often found in legal and business contexts.

  • The company was sued for breach of contract.
  • Sharing confidential information was a serious breach of trust.
offense

Generally used to describe an action that is illegal or morally wrong. Can be minor or severe and is often used in both legal and everyday contexts.

  • The athlete was suspended for using offensive language.
  • The shoplifting incident was categorized as a minor offense.

Examples of usage

  • Talking in class is considered an infraction of school rules.
  • Skipping detention can result in further infractions.
  • The school has a policy for dealing with student infractions.

Translations

Translations of the word "infraction" in other languages:

🇵🇹 infração

🇮🇳 उल्लंघन

🇩🇪 Verstoß

🇮🇩 pelanggaran

🇺🇦 порушення

🇵🇱 naruszenie

🇯🇵 違反 (いはん)

🇫🇷 infraction

🇪🇸 infracción

🇹🇷 ihlal

🇰🇷 위반 (위반)

🇸🇦 مخالفة

🇨🇿 přestupek

🇸🇰 priestupok

🇨🇳 违规 (wéiguī)

🇸🇮 kršitev

🇮🇸 brot

🇰🇿 бұзушылық

🇬🇪 დარღვევა

🇦🇿 pozuntu

🇲🇽 infracción

Etymology

The word 'infraction' originated from the Latin word 'infrahere', which means 'to break'. It entered the English language in the mid-15th century with the meaning of 'act of breaking'. Over time, it evolved to specifically refer to minor violations or breaches of rules or laws. The legal term 'infraction' became commonly used in the 20th century to describe minor offenses punishable by fines. In a school setting, 'infraction' is often used to address minor rule violations by students.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,481, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.