felony - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
felony Word Meanings
- a serious crime, such as murder or robbery
- a crime that is punishable by more than one year in prison
- a severe offense against the law
felony Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
felony Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈfɛl.ə.ni/
US
/ˈfɛl.ə.ni/
felony Word Etymology
The term 'felony' comes from the Latin 'felonia', derived from 'felo' (meaning 'wicked or treacherous'). In history, it evolved through Old French into Middle English. Picture a villainous character plotting betrayal in a dark alley, symbolizing wickedness.
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 take a slow breath and push the courthouse door, stepping into the cold corridor. My shoulders shift as I weigh a choice that could brand an act as felony in the eyes of the law. I hold tight to my resolve, choosing words and tone with care, knowing the effect on someone’s life. The word felony sits in the room with gravity, guiding how I move and speak in this moment and in the stories that follow.
Real Context
Felony is a legal term for a very serious crime, typically carrying a punishment of more than one year in prison. In many jurisdictions, felonies include crimes like murder, robbery, and large-scale fraud. The word is often used to distinguish major crimes from misdemeanors, which are lighter offenses. In everyday use, people might say 'convicted of a felony' or 'a felony conviction.' The term also appears in phrases such as 'felony murder' or 'felony theft,' where the gravity of the crime affects penalties and legal procedures. Learning the word helps you discuss criminal law clearly in English and understand news reports about crime and justice.
Usage Reminders
- Use felony for formal, legally defined crimes >1 year in prison. Do not apply to all crimes. Pair with words like conviction or charges. Distinguish from misdemeanor in contrastive contexts. Be aware of regional differences in definitions. Check if the jurisdiction uses other terms for serious crimes.
Common Misconceptions
- Felony means every crime is equally severe.
- All crimes punishable by more than a year are automatically felonies in all countries.
- Felony and murder are the same thing.
- A felony conviction always results in the same penalty everywhere.
- Only adults can commit felonies.
Thinking Differences
In English, felonies are a formal legal category; learners often compare them to crimes in general or confuse felony with murder, which is a specific crime. Focus on the legal threshold (more than a year; serious offenses) and common phrases (felony conviction, felony charges).
Learning Tips
- Identify legal thresholds (more than a year in prison).
- Pair with 'conviction' and 'charges' for clarity.
- Differentiate clearly from misdemeanor in contrastive contexts.
- Learn common compounds like felony murder, felony theft.
- Note regional differences in terminology.
- Use real-world examples from news to see usage.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
Which of the following sentences uses 'felony' correctly?
A.She picked a beautiful felony from the garden.
B.He committed a felony by stealing a car.
C.The sky was felony blue that day.
D.I counted three felonies on my way to work.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym for 'felony'?
A.Heroic
B.Misdemeanor
C.Generous
D.Obedient
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'felony'?
A.Honor
B.Health
C.Success
D.Innocence
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would the word 'felony' be used?
A.Serious crimes like murder or robbery
B.Petty theft
C.Traffic violations
D.Littering
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