delictivo
“delictivo” means “criminal” in Spanish (related to a crime or offense).
criminal
Also: delinquent, felonious
📝 In Action
La policía está investigando una nueva banda delictiva.
B1The police are investigating a new criminal gang.
El acusado no tenía ningún antecedente delictivo.
B2The accused had no criminal record.
Es necesario prevenir el comportamiento delictivo en los jóvenes.
C1It is necessary to prevent criminal behavior in young people.
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: delictivo
Question 1 of 3
Which of these means 'criminal record'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin 'delictum', meaning a fault, crime, or transgression.
First recorded: 19th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'criminal' and 'delictivo'?
They are very similar, but 'delictivo' is more formal and specific to the legal definition of an offense (delito), whereas 'criminal' can be used more broadly in everyday speech.
Can I use 'delictivo' for a minor offense?
Yes, 'delictivo' refers to any action that breaks the law, whether it is a major crime or a smaller offense.
Is 'delictivo' used often in Spain and Latin America?
Yes, it is a standard term used throughout the Spanish-speaking world, especially in the news and legal system.