What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
malefaction
Example
The company was accused of malefaction for their unethical business practices. [malefaction: noun]
Example
He was arrested for his malefactions against the community. [malefactions: plural noun]
crime
Example
The suspect was charged with several crimes, including theft and assault. [crime: noun]
Example
She committed a crime by driving under the influence of alcohol. [crime: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Crime is a more common term than malefaction in everyday language, as it is used more frequently in news, media, and legal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between malefaction and crime?
Malefaction may have a slightly more formal connotation than crime, but both words can be used in formal and informal contexts depending on the situation.
