neutral
common
Usage
Native speakers use the word 'преступник' when discussing criminal activities in serious conversations, such as police reports, news articles, or legal contexts. It can also appear in casual discussions about crime-related topics, where the focus is on the person committing the crime, making it relevant in both formal and informal settings.
Synonyms & nuances
'Преступник' is a general term for 'criminal,' but when compared to 'уголовник,' which refers specifically to a repeat offender or someone with a criminal record, 'преступник' can apply to anyone who has committed a crime, regardless of their history. Use 'преступник' in broader contexts, while 'уголовник' is more precise.
Culture
The word 'преступник' comes from the root 'преступить,' which means 'to transgress' or 'to commit an offense.' In Russian culture, discussions around 'преступники' often reveal societal attitudes towards crime, justice, and rehabilitation, reflecting the country's complex history with law and order, especially during the Soviet era when crime was often intertwined with political dissent.
FAQ
Q.What is the plural form of 'преступник'?
The plural form of 'преступник' is 'преступники.' This is used when referring to multiple criminals.
Q.How do you use 'преступник' in a sentence?
'Преступник' can be used in a sentence like: 'Этот преступник был пойман полицией,' which means 'This criminal was caught by the police.'
Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 'преступник'?
A common mistake is using 'преступник' to describe someone who has committed a minor offense. In Russian, the word often implies a serious crime, so context is important.