What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
delinquency
Example
The police officer arrested the teenager for delinquency. [delinquency: noun]
Example
The company was fined for delinquency in paying taxes. [delinquency: noun]
misconduct
Example
The CEO was fired for sexual misconduct. [misconduct: noun]
Example
The athlete was penalized for misconduct during the game. [misconduct: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Misconduct is more commonly used than delinquency in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of contexts and can apply to individuals of any age. Delinquency is more specific and often used in legal or law enforcement contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between delinquency and misconduct?
Misconduct is typically associated with a formal tone and is often used in professional or workplace settings. Delinquency is also formal but is more commonly used in legal or law enforcement contexts.