Vandalism vs. Graffiti — What's the Difference?

Deliberate destruction of or damage to property.

Unauthorized inscriptions or drawings.

Intentional harm or spoilage.

A form of visual communication in public spaces.

Mischievous or malicious destruction.

Drawings or inscriptions made on a wall or surface.

Malicious or ignorant defacement.

Scribbled, scratched, or sprayed markings.

Wilful or ignorant destruction for no obvious gain.

Artistic or scribbled writings in public places.

Vandalism is the action involving deliberate destruction of or damage to public or private property. The term includes property damage, such as graffiti and defacement directed towards any property without permission of the owner.

Graffiti (both singular and plural; the singular graffito is rarely used except in archeology) is writing or drawings made on a wall or other surface, usually without permission and within public view. Graffiti ranges from simple written words to elaborate wall paintings, and has existed since ancient times, with examples dating back to ancient Egypt, ancient Greece, and the Roman Empire.Graffiti is a controversial subject.

Action involving deliberate destruction of or damage to public or private property

Writing or drawings scribbled, scratched, or sprayed illicitly on a wall or other surface in a public place

Willful or malicious damage or destruction of the property of another.

Write or draw graffiti on (something)

Willful damage to or destruction of any property, such as graffiti or defacement.

Drawings or inscriptions made on a wall or other surface, usually without permission and so as to be seen by the public.

The spirit or conduct of the Vandals; ferocious cruelty; hostility to the arts and literature, or willful destruction or defacement of any object of beauty or value.

Drawings or words drawn on a surface in a public place, usually made without authorization.

Willful wanton and malicious destruction of the property of others

Informal inscriptions, figure drawings, etc., as opposed to official inscriptions.

(transitive) To mark a surface with such images.

Inscriptions, figure drawings, etc., found on the walls of ancient sepulchers or ruins, as in the Catacombs, or at Pompeii.

Any writings or drawings on a surface in a public place, placed there without authorization of the owner of the object on which it is written. Such graffiti are usually unwelcome, and are considered as form of vandalism.

A rude decoration inscribed on rocks or walls

Vandalism involves deliberate damage or defacement of property without permission.

Many treat unsanctioned Graffiti as Vandalism, but some cities have designated areas for Graffiti as public art.

Yes, some Graffiti can convey political or social messages, acting as a form of protest or commentary.

Reasons vary, from boredom, rebellion, anger, to the thrill of destruction.

Yes, most places have laws prohibiting Vandalism, with penalties varying based on the extent of the damage.

Yes, some cities offer tours showcasing iconic Graffiti and street art.

Many see it as a violation and may install security measures or report it to authorities.

While Vandalism focuses on damage, some might perceive certain acts, like unsanctioned Graffiti, as having artistic value.

Absolutely, artists like Banksy have gained international acclaim for their Graffiti.

No, while some Graffiti is unsanctioned and may be considered Vandalism, others, like sanctioned murals, are legal forms of art.

Vandalism has historical precedents, but modern forms may manifest differently due to societal changes.

Yes, acts of Vandalism can be politically driven, especially during protests or civil unrest.

If the Graffiti is a recognized piece of art, it can potentially increase interest or value.

Reasons can include personal expression, desire for public visibility, or making a societal statement.