Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
petty-criminal
noun
ˈpɛti ˈkrɪmɪnəl
Definition
A petty criminal is a person who commits minor crimes or offenses that are typically punishable by light penalties.
Examples
- He was caught stealing a candy bar, a classic case of petty criminal behavior.
- Petty criminals often engage in shoplifting or vandalism.
- Despite his past as a petty criminal, he turned his life around and became a community leader.
Meaning
The term refers to individuals involved in small-scale illegal activities, often seen as less serious than major crimes.
Synonyms
- Minor offender
- Low-level criminal
- Delinquent
