Adjective and noun.
/kɾi.mi.nal/
In Spanish, the word "criminal" can be used both as an adjective to describe something related to crime, and as a noun to refer to a person who commits a crime. The term is commonly used in both written and oral contexts, largely depending on the subject matter being discussed, such as criminal law, news reports, or casual conversations about crime.
The frequency of use is notably higher in contexts related to law enforcement, legal discussions, and in media reporting on crime.
The criminal was arrested by the police.
Es un acto criminal que no debe ser tolerado.
It is a criminal act that should not be tolerated.
Los criminales a menudo planifican sus crímenes con anticipación.
The term "criminal" can also appear in various idiomatic expressions in Spanish that are often used to convey moral or ethical judgment. Here are some examples:
Example: "Siempre pagan el pato por un criminal, aunque no sean culpables." - They always pay the price for a criminal, even if they are not guilty.
Example: "El tribunal juzgará al acusado como criminal de guerra." - The tribunal will try the accused as a war criminal.
Example: "Siempre sospecho de él, al criminal no se le puede confiar." - I always suspect him; a criminal cannot be trusted.
Example: "Su comportamiento es inexplicable, lo hizo por motivos criminales." - His behavior is inexplicable; he did it for criminal reasons.
The word "criminal" comes from Latin "criminalis," which means "of a crime or offense." This derives from " crimen," which means "crime" or "accusation." The transition into modern Spanish preserved the core meaning linked to crime and wrongdoing.
Synonyms: - Delincuente (delinquent) - Malhechor (wrongdoer) - Ofensor (offender)
Antonyms: - Inocente (innocent) - Honesto (honest) - Justo (just)