Lawbreaker: meaning, definitions and examples

This term is generally used to describe someone who has violated the law, typically in a non-violent or minor way.

• The lawbreaker was fined for parking in a restricted area

Used to describe someone who commits serious offenses, often involving violence or significant illegality.

• The criminal was sentenced to ten years in prison for robbery

Refers to someone who has committed a crime, especially in a legal or formal context. It can be used for both minor and serious crimes.

• First-time offenders may receive a lighter sentence

Typically used to describe a young person who frequently engages in minor crimes or antisocial behavior. This term often has a negative connotation.

• The delinquent was caught spray-painting graffiti on the school walls

Commonly used when referring to an individual who is guilty of a crime or wrongdoing, usually in a context where the identity of the person has just been discovered.

• The culprit behind the vandalism was finally caught by the police

Use this when referring to someone who violates the law in a general sense. This term can be used in both formal and informal contexts and includes minor or major legal infractions.

• The officer arrested the lawbreaker for running a red light.
• Lawbreakers can face severe penalties depending on their crimes.

This is used to describe someone who resists authority, control, or tradition, often in a political or social context. It can have a positive, neutral, or negative connotation, depending on the perspective.

• The rebels fought against the oppressive regime.
• Teenagers often go through a rebellious phase.

This term refers to someone who has broken the law and is often living outside the norms of society, evading capture. It carries a somewhat romantic or historical connotation and is often used in literature or films.

• The outlaw roamed the Wild West, evading the sheriff.
• She joined a band of outlaws after escaping from prison.

Use this to describe someone who is independent-minded and doesn't conform to the usual standards, especially in a professional or social setting. This term is often used in a positive or neutral way, highlighting individuality.

• A tech maverick, she developed a revolutionary new app.
• He’s a maverick in the business world, always coming up with unconventional solutions.

This word is used for someone who betrays or abandons a group, organization, or set of principles they once supported. It often has a negative connotation, focusing on the betrayal aspect.

• He was labeled a renegade after switching sides during the conflict.
• The renegade soldier caused turmoil within the ranks.