crime - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
crime Word Meanings
- an act against the law
- an action that causes harm
- a serious wrongdoing
crime Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
crime Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/kraɪm/
US
/kraɪm/
crime Word Etymology
From Latin 'crimen' (charge, accusation) → Old French 'crimene' → English 'crime'. Imagine a thief being caught, charged, and standing trial, representing the core of a serious wrongdoing.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I place a hand near the wallet on the counter and move it an inch closer, feeling the room tighten around me. The word crime hovers in the air, a pressure I can sense in my chest as I adjust my posture, deciding whether to push farther or pull back. The moment shifts from action to consequence, a tiny change in balance that makes honesty feel like the only feasible road. I keep my grip on restraint, and the room grows quiet as I step away.
Real Context
Crime is a word that covers illegal acts against the law and is used in formal, news, and legal contexts. It includes actions that harm people or property, such as theft, assault, fraud, or murder, and can describe broader patterns like crime rates in a city. For learners, remember that crime is a legal term, not just a moral judgment, and you typically say commit a crime or be accused of a crime. The word also ties to related terms like criminal, crime scene, and crime rate. Because laws differ by country, what counts as a crime can vary in severity or classification.
Usage Reminders
- Crime is a legal term; not every bad act is a crime.
- Use articles: 'a crime' vs 'crime' (uncountable in abstract).
- Common collocations: commit a crime, crime scene, crime rate.
- Differentiate crime from offense or violation.
- Plural: crimes (not 'crimees').
Common Misconceptions
- Crime = sin or moral failing
- All illegal acts are crimes in every country
- If it isn’t violent, it isn’t a crime
- You say 'commit crime' instead of 'commit a crime'
- Criminal and crime are exactly the same noun
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker that crime is a formal legal concept, not just 'bad act'; emphasize legal context and common collocations.
Learning Tips
- Learn the key collocations: commit a crime, crime scene, crime rate
- Distinguish crime from offense and violation
- Remember crime tends to be used with legal phrases
- Watch for jurisdiction differences in what counts as a crime
- Use plural 'crimes' for multiple offenses
- Practice with news headlines to see how crime is discussed
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'crime'?
A.Success
B.Kindness
C.Honesty
D.Illegal act
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is the word 'crime' used correctly?
A.The crime of the project manager led to great success.
B.She was praised for her crime in the community.
C.They were punished for their crime of donating to charity.
D.He committed a crime by helping an old lady across the street.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'crime'?
A.Joy
B.Offense
C.Friendship
D.Peace
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is an opposite of 'crime'?
A.Justice
B.Kindness
C.Freedom
D.Rule
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you hear the word 'crime'?
A.Gardening competition
B.Birthday party
C.Family picnic
D.Police investigation
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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