"Conducta criminal" is a term commonly used in the field of law in Spanish-speaking countries to refer to criminal behavior or actions that go against the law. It is mostly used in written contexts, such as legal documents, court proceedings, and academic texts. Its frequency of use can vary depending on the context, but it is generally not as common in oral speech as in written language.
Example sentences
Su conducta criminal lo llevó a prisión.
His criminal behavior led him to prison.
La conducta criminal del acusado fue evidente durante el juicio.
The defendant's criminal conduct was evident during the trial.
Idiomatic expressions
"Conducta criminal" is not typically part of idiomatic expressions in Spanish. However, there are other expressions related to criminal behavior that are commonly used. Here are a few examples:
Tener malas pulgas
Translation: To have a quick temper
Example: El jefe tiene malas pulgas cuando alguien menciona su conducta criminal.
Translation: The boss has a quick temper when someone mentions his criminal behavior.
Echar leña al fuego
Translation: To add fuel to the fire
Example: No deberías mencionar su conducta criminal, solo estarías echando leña al fuego.
Translation: You shouldn't mention his criminal behavior, you would only be adding fuel to the fire.
Etymology
"Conducta" comes from the Latin word "conducta" meaning "to lead" or "to guide".
"Criminal" comes from the Latin word "crīminālis" meaning "relating to a crime".