Offence

usgb/əˈfens/
noun

A violation of any rule or law.

Stealing is a criminal offence
Visual representation of "offence" - A violation of any rule or law

Often appears as...

  • criminal offence
  • commit an offence

Usage tips

Formal, Disapproving

Technical

Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "offence"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Legal Context

Used in a legal setting to describe various crimes, from small to large.

Illustration for Legal Context
Parking illegally is a minor offence.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Criminal Record

Can affect a person's criminal record, with potential long-term consequences.

Illustration for Criminal Record
A conviction for a drug offence can hinder employment opportunities.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Severity Levels

Offences vary in severity, which affects the punishment, like fines or imprisonment.

Illustration for Severity Levels
A felony offence generally leads to more severe penalties than a misdemeanor.
Word comparison image

Compare with

affrontbreachcrimefaultinfractionmisdeedoutragesintransgressionviolatewrongdoing
Visual representation of the word "Offence"

Never forget "Offence"

Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google PlayGet it from MicrosoftGet it on AppGallery
Chrome

WordUp Chrome Extension

As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.

Get Chrome Extension