criminal - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
criminal Word Meanings
- a person who commits a crime
- related to crime
- a person guilty of a serious offense
criminal Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
criminal Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈkrɪm.ɪ.nəl/
US
/ˈkrɪm.ɪ.nəl/
criminal Word Etymology
Root: crimin- = crime; Historical Origin: Latin 'criminalis' → Old French 'criminal' → English; Memory Image: Imagine a person sneaking around at night, embodying the concept of breaking the law and evoking the fear of crime.
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
Hands on the door, I push it slowly and listen as the latch settles. A shadow ahead shifts, and I adjust my steps, keeping control as the plan in my head edges toward action. The breath tightens, the heart pounds, and I turn the thought over, weighing the risk of crossing a line. In this moment the word criminal lands as a pulse, a label that sticks to someone who steps into that risky space.
Real Context
Criminal can be both a noun and an adjective. As a noun, it refers to a person who commits a crime, such as a thief or burglar. As an adjective, it describes anything connected with crime or wrongdoing, for example criminal law, criminal records, or criminal activity. In everyday and legal English, criminal often carries a strong negative tone but remains a formal, neutral term in many contexts. It is important to distinguish crime (the act) from the person or attribute described by criminal. Learners often confuse criminal with criminality or assume it describes all bad people alike.
Usage Reminders
- Use criminal as a noun for a person who commits a crime.
- As an adjective, describe things related to crime or people with a criminal status.
- Remember that crime is the act, not the person.
- Be mindful of tone; it can be strong or formal depending on context.
- Do not apply criminal to non-human objects or generic bad behavior.
- Avoid confusing with criminally (adverb).
Common Misconceptions
- Criminal and crime are interchangeable in all contexts.
- All criminals are evil people who deserve punishment.
- Criminal only refers to violent offenses.
- Criminal means 'guilty' without a court verdict.
- Criminal cannot describe legal concepts like criminal law.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Practice distinguishing crime (the act) from a criminal (the person).
- Use criminal with nouns like law, activity, and record.
- Remember to use criminally as the adverb, not as a noun.
- Check collocations: criminal law, criminal justice system, criminal record.
- Be mindful of tone: can be formal or harsh depending on context.
- Avoid using criminal to describe non-human things.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'criminal' mean?
A.Someone who follows the law
B.Someone who commits illegal acts
C.Someone who helps others
D.Someone who is honest
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'criminal' correctly?
A.The criminal saved the day.
B.The criminal stole money from the bank.
C.The criminal followed all rules.
D.The criminal was rewarded for their good deeds.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'criminal'?
A.Plumber
B.Doctor
C.Thief
D.Teacher
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'criminal'?
A.Friendly
B.Legal
C.Honest
D.Brave
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario involving a criminal?
A.A person delivering mail
B.A thief stealing from a store
C.A firefighter putting out a fire
D.A student studying for an exam
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