Misdemeanor: meaning, definitions and examples

This term is typically used in legal contexts to describe a criminal offense that is less serious than a felony. It can be a general term for various types of lesser crimes.

• He was charged with a misdemeanor for vandalism.
• A misdemeanor usually results in a fine or a short jail term.

This phrase is often used to describe small legal violations or breaches of rules that are less severe and typically minor in impact. Used in both legal and everyday contexts.

• Littering is considered a minor offense in many cities.
• The judge decided to give him a warning for the minor offense.

This is commonly used in informal speech to describe small, less serious crimes, often those involving theft or dishonesty. It has a somewhat negative connotation.

• Shoplifting is often classified as a petty crime.
• He was arrested for a series of petty crimes, including stealing candy from a store.