What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
illegal
Example
It is illegal to drive without a license. [illegal: adjective]
Example
The company was fined for engaging in illegal business practices. [illegal: adjective]
criminal
Example
The criminal was sentenced to ten years in prison. [criminal: noun]
Example
Robbery is a criminal offense. [criminal: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Illegal is more commonly used than criminal in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of contexts and can refer to actions that are not necessarily criminal. Criminal is more specific and is often used in legal or law enforcement contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between illegal and criminal?
Criminal is a more formal term than illegal, as it is often used in legal or law enforcement contexts. Illegal is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
