Definitions
- Referring to an action or behavior that is against the law or not allowed by the government. - Talking about something that is prohibited or forbidden by law. - Describing an activity that is not authorized or approved by the authorities.
- Referring to a person who has committed a crime and is guilty of breaking the law. - Talking about an act or behavior that is considered a crime and punishable by law. - Describing something that is related to or involves criminal activity.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words are related to breaking the law.
- 2Both words describe actions or behaviors that are not allowed by the government.
- 3Both words can have serious consequences, including fines, imprisonment, or other legal penalties.
What is the difference?
- 1Scope: Illegal refers to actions that are against the law, while criminal refers to actions that are considered crimes.
- 2Focus: Illegal emphasizes the action or behavior itself, while criminal emphasizes the person who committed the crime.
- 3Severity: Criminal is generally considered more serious than illegal, as it implies a deliberate and intentional violation of the law.
- 4Legal status: Illegal is a broader term that can refer to actions that are not necessarily criminal, such as civil offenses or violations of regulations.
- 5Connotation: Illegal is a neutral term, while criminal has a negative connotation and implies wrongdoing or guilt.
Remember this!
Illegal and criminal are both related to breaking the law, but they have different meanings and connotations. Illegal refers to actions that are against the law or not allowed by the government, while criminal refers to actions that are considered crimes and punishable by law. Criminal is generally considered more serious than illegal and has a negative connotation.
