The meaning of CRIMINAL is relating to, involving, or being a crime. How to use criminal in a sentence.

A criminal is someone who breaks the law. If you're a murderer, thief, or tax cheat, you're a criminal.

CRIMINAL definition: 1. someone who commits a crime: 2. relating to crime: 3. very bad or morally wrong: . Learn more.

Dec 3, 2025 · FindLaw explains the differences between criminal negligence and ordinary negligence, the crimes that involve it, and the potential penalties associated with criminal negligence charges.

If you describe an action as criminal, you think it is very wrong or a serious mistake.

When certain acts or people are involved in or related to a crime, they are referred to as criminal. For example: “criminal conspiracy,” “criminal taking,” a “criminal gang.”

Dec 2, 2025 · Crime is the intentional commission of an act usually deemed socially harmful or dangerous and specifically defined, prohibited, and punishable under criminal law.

By criminal law is understood that system of laws which provides for the mode of trial of persons charged with criminal offences, defines crimes, and provides for their punishments.

CRIMINAL definition: of the nature of or involving crime. See examples of criminal used in a sentence.

Below you'll find detailed yet easy-to-understand Criminal Law articles from our legal pros. These articles are organized by category to help you find what you're looking for.