What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
crime
Example
Robbery is a serious crime that can result in a long prison sentence. [crime: noun]
Example
He was arrested for committing a crime against public decency. [crime: noun]
felony
Example
He was charged with a felony for embezzling company funds. [felony: noun]
Example
The defendant was found guilty of committing a felony offense. [felony: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Crime is a more common term than felony and is used worldwide to describe illegal activities. Felony is a legal term used in the United States and some other countries to describe serious crimes.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between crime and felony?
Felony is a more formal term than crime and is typically used in legal contexts. Crime is a more versatile term that can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
