On the wrong side of the law
phrase
Engaging in illegal or criminal activities.
After becoming addicted to drugs, he found himself on the wrong side of the law.
Often appears as...
- find oneself on the wrong side of the law
- end up on the wrong side of the law
Usage tips
Disapproving
Idiomatic
phrase
Disagreeing or conflicting with legal authorities.
By refusing to pay his taxes, he was on the wrong side of the law.
Often appears as...
- disagree with the law
- conflict with the law
Usage tips
Disapproving
Idiomatic
phrase
Engaging in illegal or criminal activities.
After becoming addicted to drugs, he found himself on the wrong side of the law.
Often appears as...
- find oneself on the wrong side of the law
- end up on the wrong side of the law
Usage tips
Disapproving
Idiomatic
phrase
Disagreeing or conflicting with legal authorities.
By refusing to pay his taxes, he was on the wrong side of the law.
Often appears as...
- disagree with the law
- conflict with the law
Usage tips
Disapproving
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Negative connotation
This phrase implies a poor judgment or choice, casting a shadow on one's character.
She never imagined her brother would be on the wrong side of the law.
Pro Tip 2/3Legal trouble
Use when someone is actually in trouble with the law, not just behaving badly.
Caught shoplifting, he was now firmly on the wrong side of the law.
Pro Tip 3/3Context Matters
The phrase is often used in news or stories about crime and justice.
The once respected businessman found himself on the wrong side of the law.
Pro Tip 1/3Negative connotation
This phrase implies a poor judgment or choice, casting a shadow on one's character.
She never imagined her brother would be on the wrong side of the law.
Pro Tip 2/3Legal trouble
Use when someone is actually in trouble with the law, not just behaving badly.
Caught shoplifting, he was now firmly on the wrong side of the law.
Pro Tip 3/3Context Matters
The phrase is often used in news or stories about crime and justice.
The once respected businessman found himself on the wrong side of the law.
Pro Tip 1/3Negative connotation
This phrase implies a poor judgment or choice, casting a shadow on one's character.
She never imagined her brother would be on the wrong side of the law.
Pro Tip 2/3Legal trouble
Use when someone is actually in trouble with the law, not just behaving badly.
Caught shoplifting, he was now firmly on the wrong side of the law.
Pro Tip 3/3Context Matters
The phrase is often used in news or stories about crime and justice.
The once respected businessman found himself on the wrong side of the law.
Never forget "On the wrong side of the law"
Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!
WordUp Chrome Extension
As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.
Get Chrome Extension