Definitions and Examples of criminal, illegal, unlawful
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
Relating to or involving crime.
Example
He was arrested for his criminal activities and sentenced to ten years in prison.
Contrary to or forbidden by law, especially criminal law.
Example
It is illegal to drive without a license.
Not conforming to, permitted by, or recognized by law or rules.
Example
The company's unlawful practices were exposed by an investigative journalist.
Key Differences: criminal vs illegal vs unlawful
- 1Criminal refers to actions that are against the law and can result in punishment.
- 2Illegal describes actions that are prohibited by law and can be punished by the legal system.
- 3Unlawful refers to actions that are not recognized by law or rules and can be considered unethical or immoral.
Effective Usage of criminal, illegal, unlawful
- 1Legal Matters: Use these antonyms to describe actions that are against the law or prohibited by legal systems.
- 2News Reporting: Incorporate these words in news reporting to describe illegal or unethical activities.
- 3Academic Writing: Utilize these antonyms in academic writing to describe actions that are not recognized by law or rules.
Remember this!
The antonyms of subcriminal are criminal, illegal, and unlawful. These words describe actions or behaviors that are against the law or societal norms. Use these words to describe illegal or unethical activities in news reporting, legal matters, and academic writing.