neutral
common
Usage
Native speakers often use the word 犯罪 (hanzai) when discussing news reports about criminal activities, in legal contexts, or when chatting about safety in their neighborhoods. For example, you might hear it in conversations about recent thefts in a local area or during debates about law enforcement policies.
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym for 犯罪 is 罪 (tsumi), which literally means 'sin' or 'guilt.' While 犯罪 refers specifically to legal offenses, 罪 can have a broader, more moralistic context, making hanzai the appropriate choice in legal discussions and criminology.
Culture
The term 犯罪 (hanzai) has deep cultural significance in Japan, reflecting the country’s unique relationship with law and order. Interestingly, the kanji characters used also hint at its meaning: '犯' means 'to commit' and '罪' means 'sin' or 'fault,' emphasizing that crime is seen as a serious moral failing in Japanese society. This perspective is rooted in Confucian values that stress the importance of social harmony.
FAQ
Q.What does 犯罪 (hanzai) mean?
犯罪 (hanzai) translates to 'crime' in English, referring to any action that is against the law. It encompasses a wide range of illegal activities, from minor offenses to serious felonies.
Q.How do you use 犯罪 in a sentence?
You can use 犯罪 in sentences like 'この地域で犯罪が増えている' (Kono chiiki de hanzai ga fuete iru), which means 'Crime is increasing in this area.'
Q.Are there common phrases that include 犯罪?
Yes, common phrases include '犯罪を防ぐ' (hanzai o fusegu), meaning 'to prevent crime,' and '犯罪者' (hanzaisha), meaning 'criminal.' These expressions are useful in discussions about law enforcement and public safety.