Langimage
English

lawbreaking

|law-break-ing|

B2

/ˈlɔːˌbreɪkɪŋ/

(lawbreak)

violating rules

Base FormNounAdjective
lawbreaklawbreakerlawbreaking
Etymology
Etymology Information

'lawbreaking' originates from the combination of 'law' and 'breaking', where 'law' refers to the system of rules and 'breaking' means to violate or fail to comply.

Historical Evolution

'Lawbreaking' evolved from the Old English word 'lagu' meaning 'law' and 'brecan' meaning 'to break'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to break a rule or law', and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

the act of violating or breaking the law.

Lawbreaking is a serious offense that can lead to imprisonment.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Adjective 1

engaged in or characterized by the violation of laws.

The lawbreaking activities of the gang were well-known to the police.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41