delito
“delito” means “crime” in Spanish (A serious legal offense).
crime, offense
Also: misdemeanor, felony
📝 In Action
Cometer un delito grave puede resultar en prisión.
B1Committing a serious crime can result in prison.
El robo es un delito contra la propiedad privada.
B2Theft is an offense against private property.
La policía investiga si hubo un delito de fraude fiscal.
C1The police are investigating whether there was a crime of tax fraud.
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: delito
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence correctly uses 'delito'?
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📚 Etymology▼
It comes from the Latin word *delictum*, which meant 'a fault' or 'an offense.' It is related to the verb *delinquere*, meaning 'to fail' or 'to be wanting.' The core meaning of breaking a rule has remained consistent for centuries.
First recorded: 13th century (in Spanish)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
¿Cuál es la diferencia entre 'delito' y 'crimen'?
In everyday speech, they are often used interchangeably, but 'crimen' usually implies a more severe, violent, or premeditated act (like murder). 'Delito' is the general legal term for any offense, big or small.