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犯罪 — meaning in English: crime

hanzai · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for crime
夕食
yuushoku
犯罪
hanzai
フォーチュン
fōchun
影響
eikyou
豆
mame
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neutral common
Usage
Native speakers commonly use the word 犯罪 (hanzai) when discussing legal matters, crime reports, or during police investigations. For example, you might hear it in news broadcasts when reporting on recent criminal activities or in conversations about safety in urban areas.
Synonyms & nuances
While 犯罪 (hanzai) broadly means 'crime,' it is often contrasted with the word 軽犯罪 (keihanzai), which refers to minor offenses. You would use hanzai when discussing serious crimes or legal contexts, while keihanzai is more appropriate for petty theft or misdemeanors.
Culture
The term 犯罪 (hanzai) has deep roots in Japanese history, with its kanji characters translating to 'crime' and 'injury' respectively. Interestingly, crime-related vocabulary has evolved significantly in Japan, particularly after the Meiji Restoration, reflecting social changes and modernization. Today, hanzai is often associated with the broader implications of justice and societal norms.
FAQ
Q.What are some common types of 犯罪 in Japan?
Common types of 犯罪 (hanzai) in Japan include theft, assault, and fraud. Each type has specific legal definitions and consequences under Japanese law.
Q.How do you use 犯罪 in a sentence?
You can use 犯罪 (hanzai) in a sentence like: 'この町では犯罪が増えている' (Kono machi de wa hanzai ga fuete iru), which means 'Crime is increasing in this town.'
Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 犯罪?
A common mistake is confusing 犯罪 (hanzai) with the term 罪 (tsumi), which means 'sin' or 'offense' in a moral sense. Remember, hanzai is used specifically in legal contexts, while tsumi often relates to ethical or personal transgressions.
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