Vocabulary for discussing crime, law enforcement, justice systems, and criminal behaviour.
recidivism
The tendency of a convicted criminal to reoffend.
Band 7+ example
“Rehabilitation programmes have been shown to reduce recidivism rates more effectively than punitive measures alone.”
Common collocations
Common mistake
Many criminals do recidivism after prison.
The high rate of recidivism suggests that the current penal system fails to address the root causes of criminal behaviour.
deterrent
Something that discourages or is intended to discourage someone from doing something.
Band 7+ example
“There is ongoing debate about whether capital punishment serves as an effective deterrent against violent crime.”
Common collocations
Common mistake
Punishment is a deterrent for criminals to not do crime.
Harsh sentencing is often cited as a deterrent, yet evidence of its effectiveness remains inconclusive.
rehabilitation
The process of helping a person reintegrate into society after imprisonment or addiction.
Band 7+ example
“A justice system centred on rehabilitation rather than retribution produces better long-term outcomes for society.”
Common collocations
Common mistake
Rehabilitation is better for criminals than punishment.
Investment in rehabilitation programmes equips offenders with the skills necessary to reintegrate into society.
incarceration
The state of being confined in prison; imprisonment.
Band 7+ example
“Mass incarceration disproportionately affects minority communities and places an enormous financial burden on taxpayers.”
Common collocations
Common mistake
Incarceration of criminals is necessary for safety.
Alternatives to incarceration, such as community service orders, can be more effective for non-violent offenders.
juvenile
Relating to young people; a young person, especially one below the age of criminal responsibility.
Band 7+ example
“Juvenile offenders require tailored interventions that address underlying social factors rather than purely punitive responses.”
Common collocations
Common mistake
Juvenile criminals should be punished like adults.
The juvenile justice system should prioritise education and rehabilitation over custodial sentences.
legislation
Laws, considered collectively; the process of making or enacting laws.
Band 7+ example
“Stricter legislation governing firearms has been linked to lower rates of gun-related violence in several countries.”
Common collocations
Common mistake
The government should make legislation for this problem.
The government should introduce comprehensive legislation to address cybercrime.
white-collar
Relating to non-violent crimes committed by business or professional people, typically involving fraud.
Band 7+ example
“White-collar crime, such as corporate fraud and embezzlement, often causes greater financial harm than petty theft.”
Common collocations
Common mistake
White-collar crime is not as bad as other crimes.
White-collar crime undermines public trust in financial institutions and can have devastating economic consequences.
surveillance
Close observation, especially of a suspected person or area, often using technology.
Band 7+ example
“The expansion of CCTV surveillance in urban areas has contributed to a measurable reduction in street crime.”
Common collocations
Common mistake
Surveillance can help catch criminals in the city.
While surveillance technology aids crime prevention, it raises legitimate concerns about privacy and civil liberties.
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