Perpetrator: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in legal or formal contexts to refer to someone who has committed a crime or wrongful act, especially a serious one.

• The police have identified the perpetrator of the theft
• The perpetrator of the fraud was sentenced to five years in prison

Often used in everyday language to refer to someone who is responsible for a crime or wrongdoing, typically in less formal situations.

• The culprit behind the graffiti was a local teenager
• We finally found the culprit who was stealing from the office

Used to describe someone who has violated a law or rule. It can be used for both minor and serious infractions and is often used in legal settings.

• The first-time offender was given a lighter sentence
• Repeat offenders could face harsher punishments

Commonly used to describe someone who has committed a crime, generally implying a legal conviction. It can refer to minor or major crimes.

• The criminal was caught and taken to jail
• She was a known criminal in the community

A more general term that can describe someone who engages in any sort of unethical or illegal activity. It is often used in moral or ethical discussions.

• The wrongdoer confessed his misdeeds to the authorities
• Society must find ways to rehabilitate wrongdoers

Use 'perpetrator' when referring to someone who has committed a crime or an unethical act, with a negative connotation involved.

• The perpetrator of the robbery was caught on surveillance cameras.
• The police are still searching for the perpetrator of the arson.

Use 'instigator' to describe someone who provokes or initiates an action or event, often implying it is done in a negative or disruptive way.

• He was the instigator of the protest that turned violent.
• The instigator of the fight was suspended from school.

Use 'source' to refer to the origin of something, typically information, energy, or a problem. This term is neutral in tone.

• The journalist had to protect the identity of her source.
• Renewable energy sources are crucial for sustainable development.

Use 'cause' when referring to something that brings about an effect or a condition without necessarily implying blame or negativity.

• Smoking is a common cause of lung cancer.
• Poor diet and lack of exercise can cause heart disease.