Criminal vs Fugitive
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
| Criminal | Fugitive | |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | A person who breaks the law. | A person who is running away, especially from the law. |
| CEFR level | A2 | B1 |
| Part of speech | noun | noun |
| Usage notes | Use 'criminal' in legal contexts or discussions about crime. Avoid using it casually to label someone without evidence of wrongdoing. | Used in both formal and informal contexts to describe someone who is escaping capture. More common in legal or crime-related discussions. |
Frequently asked questions: Criminal vs Fugitive
What's the difference between "Criminal" and "Fugitive"?
"Criminal" means: A person who breaks the law. "Fugitive" means: A person who is running away, especially from the law.
When should I use "Criminal" and "Fugitive"?
They can all be used in everyday English.
Are "Criminal" and "Fugitive" the same CEFR level?
"Criminal" is at A2, "Fugitive" is at B1 on the CEFR scale.