Wrongdoer Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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wrongdoer

[ˈrɔːŋˌduːər ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

criminal

A person who has committed a crime or has done something morally wrong.

Synonyms

criminal, culprit, offender.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
wrongdoer	General term for someone who does something morally or legally wrong. It can be used in both serious and minor situations. The wrongdoer was finally caught by the police. She forgave the wrongdoer for breaking her trust.
offender	General term for someone who violates laws or regulations. Often used in legal or formal contexts, and it includes both minor and serious offenses. First-time offenders may receive lighter sentences. The repeat offender was sentenced to a longer prison term.
culprit	Identifies a person responsible for a crime or misdeed. Often used when the person has been identified but not yet proven guilty. Can be used in both serious and everyday contexts. The culprit behind the vandalism was caught on camera. After hours of searching, they found the culprit who ate the last cookie.
criminal	Refers to someone who has committed a crime. It is often used in serious legal contexts and can have a strong negative connotation. The criminal was convicted of bank robbery. The police are searching for the criminal involved in the crime.

Examples of usage

The wrongdoer was arrested by the police.
The wrongdoer should be held accountable for their actions.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

legal

A person who is found guilty of violating the law or a rule.

Synonyms

delinquent, lawbreaker, transgressor.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
wrongdoer	A general term used for someone who does something morally or legally wrong. Suitable for describing a person involved in any kind of wrongdoing without specifying the nature or severity. The wrongdoer was quickly identified and brought to justice. No wrongdoer should go unpunished.
lawbreaker	Used to describe someone who breaks the law. It works well in legal, criminal justice, or everyday conversations when discussing someone who has committed a crime, irrespective of its severity. Lawbreakers will face strict penalties under the new legislation. The police conducted a raid to catch the lawbreakers.
transgressor	Typically used in more formal or religious contexts to describe someone who violates moral or religious rules. It can also be used in a legal sense to denote someone who has overstepped specific boundaries. He was regarded as a transgressor by his community for his unconventional beliefs. In many cultures, transgressors of sacred laws are often shunned.
delinquent	Commonly refers to a young person, usually a teenager, who shows a tendency to commit minor crimes or misbehave. Often used in social or legal contexts involving juveniles. The city has several programs aimed at helping delinquent youths. Her son was becoming increasingly delinquent, skipping school and getting into trouble.

Examples of usage

The wrongdoer was sentenced to five years in prison.
The wrongdoer was fined for their illegal actions.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Law

In legal terms, a wrongdoer can be held liable for their actions and may face consequences in civil or criminal court.
The concept of 'wrongdoing' is foundational in legal systems, defining actions that are punishable by law.
The justice system aims to rehabilitate wrongdoers to encourage them to make better choices in the future.

Psychology

Studies in psychology explore why individuals become wrongdoers, often focusing on environmental and social influences.
Moral development theories analyze how children learn about right and wrong, helping them avoid becoming wrongdoers.
Cognitive dissonance can play a role, where individuals rationalize their bad behaviors to align with their self-image.

Pop Culture

Films and books often depict wrongdoers as complex characters, exploring their motivations and the consequences of their actions.
Examples include anti-heroes who commit wrongdoings but may also exhibit redeeming qualities, captivating audiences worldwide.
The trope of the 'misunderstood wrongdoer' challenges viewers to understand the human side of those who break the rules.

Literature

Classic literature frequently features wrongdoers as protagonists, showcasing their journey towards redemption or deeper moral lessons.
Shakespeare’s plays often include characters who engage in wrongdoings, highlighting themes of justice and morality.
Dostoevsky's novels explore the psychology of wrongdoers, delving into their inner conflicts and societal influences.

Origin of 'wrongdoer'

Main points about word origin

The word 'wrongdoer' comes from combining 'wrong', meaning bad or immoral, and 'doer', someone who performs actions.
It has been used in English since the late 14th century, initially to describe someone who commits sin or wrongdoing.
The prefix 'wrong' derives from Old English 'wrang', which signifies something that is twisted or not right.

The word 'wrongdoer' originated from the combination of 'wrong' and 'doer', dating back to the 13th century. It is used to describe someone who has committed a wrongful or immoral act, often in the context of criminal or legal matters.