delitos
“delitos” means “crimes” in Spanish (acts that break the law).
crimes, offenses
Also: felonies, misdemeanors
📝 In Action
La policía está investigando una serie de delitos menores en el vecindario.
B1The police are investigating a series of minor offenses in the neighborhood.
Los delitos financieros son a menudo difíciles de probar en la corte.
B2Financial crimes are often difficult to prove in court.
La lista de delitos graves incluye el robo y el fraude.
B1The list of serious crimes includes theft and fraud.
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: delitos
Question 1 of 2
Which word is the most standard, neutral term for 'crimes' or 'offenses' in a formal legal context?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
This word comes from the Latin verb *delinquere*, which meant 'to fail' or 'to be wanting'—essentially, to fail in one's duty or obligation to the law. It entered Spanish as a direct reference to a legal wrong.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'delitos' always masculine?
Yes. The singular form is 'el delito' (masculine), so the plural 'delitos' is also masculine and requires masculine articles and adjectives.
How do I say 'to commit a crime'?
The most common and formal way is 'cometer un delito'. You can also use the related verb 'delinquir'.