delinquent - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
delinquent Word Meanings
- failing to do what law or duty requires
- a person who commits a crime or does wrong
- a minor who behaves badly or illegally
delinquent Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
delinquent Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/dɪˈlɪŋkwənt/
US
/dɪˈlɪŋkwənt/
delinquent Word Etymology
de- (down, away) + linquere (to abandon) = one who abandons their duties; Latin → Old French → English. Imagine a youth walking away from their responsibilities, leaving behind a mess in their wake.
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
Delinquent can function as an adjective meaning failing to do what law or duty requires, often describing someone who neglects responsibilities or falls behind on obligations. As a noun, delinquent refers to a person who commits a crime or wrongdoing, especially someone who repeatedly breaks rules. In everyday use, you may hear about delinquent accounts, taxes, or loans meaning they are overdue. The term can also describe a juvenile who behaves illegally, as in juvenile delinquent, though care is needed not to stigmatize every misbehaving student. The nuance is negative and context matters: formal documents may say delinquent borrower; casual speech might simply say overdue or misbehaving.
Usage Reminders
- - Delinquent has two senses: an adjective and a noun.
- - When talking about a person, specify juvenile delinquent if relevant.
- - For debts, use overdue or in default rather than labeling a person.
- - Avoid broad negative labeling in casual speech.
- - Distinguish punished crimes from minor misbehavior in context.
Common Misconceptions
- Delinquent always means a violent criminal.
- It only applies to youths or juveniles.
- Delinquent describes someone who is merely late, not a criminal.
- You can use it to describe a single minor lapse without context.
- It is a friendly or casual term.
Thinking Differences
Learners tend to split delinquent into two separate ideas (crime vs. failure to meet duties) and may misapply it to late payments or everyday misbehavior. English relies on context to signal whether we mean a person or a status.
Learning Tips
- Practice both senses by making separate example sentences.
- Learn common collocations: delinquent account, delinquent youth, delinquent behavior.
- Use precise labels in formal writing (delinquent borrower vs. delinquent person).
- Be mindful of the tone; avoid casual over-labeling.
- Differentiate crime vocabulary from debt status with context clues.
- Read discourse that distinguishes people from states of being.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'delinquent'?
A.Well-behaved
B.Friendly
C.Troublemaker
D.Cheerful
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'delinquent' used correctly?
A.She is always responsible and never late for work.
B.He received an award for his diligent work ethic.
C.The delinquent students caused chaos in the classroom.
D.The delinquent puppy was adopted by a loving family.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'delinquent'?
A.Honest
B.Naughty
C.Responsible
D.Law-abiding
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'delinquent'?
A.Law-abiding
B.Conscientious
C.Upstanding
D.Diligent
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you use the word 'delinquent'?
A.Describing a misbehaving child
B.Complimenting a hard-working student
C.Praising a responsible citizen
D.Referring to a well-mannered individual
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