delinquency - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
delinquency Word Meanings
- the habitual committing of crimes
- minor crime, especially by young people
- failure to fulfill a duty or obligation
delinquency Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
delinquency Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/dɪˈlɪŋkwənsi/
US
/dɪˈlɪŋk.wən.si/
delinquency Word Etymology
de- = away + linquere = to leave; from Latin ‘delinquere’, meaning ‘to fail or to leave’. Imagine someone who leaves their responsibilities behind, creating delinquency by avoiding duties.
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 InputReal Context
Delinquency refers to the recurring engagement in unlawful acts, or the failure to meet legal, social, or ethical duties. In law and criminology, it often describes crimes committed by minors or young adults, distinguishing from adult offenses. In everyday speech, it can also mean neglecting duties at school, work, or family, such as chronic lateness, skipping responsibilities, or ignoring chores. The term carries a judgment about habit and pattern rather than a single mistake. When you hear about juvenile justice, you're typically hearing about delinquency, rehabilitation, and prevention programs aimed at redirecting behavior rather than punishing a one-off error. The nuance hinges on frequency, context, and consequences.
Usage Reminders
- 1) Delinquency emphasizes pattern and context, not a single mistake.
- 2) Consider whether it refers to youth crime or failure to meet duties.
- 3) Distinguish from crime by focusing on repeated acts.
- 4) Use in legal or social contexts to discuss rehabilitation and prevention.
- 5) Choose translations that reflect habit, rather than one-off behavior.
Common Misconceptions
- Delinquency equals crime and implies violence.
- Delinquency only means youth crime.
- Delinquency is just laziness, not a pattern.
- Delinquency and crime are always the same in all contexts.
- Delinquency is the same as negligence at work.
Thinking Differences
English tends to separate a pattern of behavior from a single act; learners often overfire by translating delinquency as a one-off crime or missing a single duty.
Learning Tips
- Map pattern to habit, context to setting, and consequences to outcomes.
- Compare delinquency with crime to see the nuance of repetition.
- Note that youth focus is common in discussions of delinquency.
- Practice translating with phrases like habitual neglect or repeated offenses.
- Use example sentences that show school, work, and family contexts.
- Check legal vs everyday usage to avoid casual misuse.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'delinquency'?
A.Happiness
B.Criminal behavior
C.Fast speed
D.Delicious food
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'delinquency' correctly?
A.He was praised for his delinquency in solving the problem.
B.Her delinquency at work led to a promotion.
C.I love the delinquency of this chocolate cake.
D.The teacher commended his delinquency behavior in class.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is the most similar word to 'delinquency'?
A.Justice
B.Misdemeanor
C.Cheerful
D.Celebration
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'delinquency'?
A.Conformity
B.Responsibility
C.Compliance
D.Obligation
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario of 'delinquency'?
A.His delinquency in paying bills caused financial troubles.
B.She exhibited delinquency by skipping school.
C.The company faced issues due to employee's delinquency.
D.The community celebrated delinquency as a positive trait.
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