Crime vs. Criminal — What's the Difference?

In ordinary language, a crime is an unlawful act punishable by a state or other authority. The term crime does not, in modern criminal law, have any simple and universally accepted definition, though statutory definitions have been provided for certain purposes.

Of, involving, or having the nature of crime

An act committed in violation of law where the consequence of conviction by a court is punishment, especially where the punishment is a serious one such as imprisonment.

Relating to the administration of penal law.

Unlawful activity

Guilty of crime.

A serious offense, especially one in violation of morality.

Characteristic of a criminal.

An unjust, senseless, or disgraceful act or condition

Shameful; disgraceful

(countable) A specific act committed in violation of the law.

One that has committed or been legally convicted of a crime.

(countable) Any great sin or wickedness; iniquity.

Against the law; forbidden by law.

That which occasions crime.

Guilty of breaking the law.

(uncountable) Criminal acts collectively.

Of or relating to crime or penal law.

(uncountable) The habit or practice of committing crimes.

(figuratively) Abhorrent or very undesirable.

To subject to disciplinary punishment.

A person who is guilty of a crime, notably breaking the law.

(nonce word) To commit crime.

Guilty of crime or sin.

Any violation of law, either divine or human; an omission of a duty commanded, or the commission of an act forbidden by law.

Involving a crime; of the nature of a crime; - said of an act or of conduct; as, criminal carelessness.

Gross violation of human law, in distinction from a misdemeanor or trespass, or other slight offense. Hence, also, any aggravated offense against morality or the public welfare; any outrage or great wrong.

Relating to crime; - opposed to civil; as, the criminal code.

Any great wickedness or sin; iniquity.

One who has commited a crime; especially, one who is found guilty by verdict, confession, or proof; a malefactor; a felon.

That which occasion crime.

Someone who has committed (or been legally convicted of) a crime

(criminal law) an act punishable by law; usually considered an evil act;

Relating to crime or its punishment;

An evil act not necessarily punishable by law;

Bringing or deserving severe rebuke or censure;

Guilty of crime or serious offense;

Involving or being or having the nature of a crime;