What does criminally mean?
Criminally is an adverb that describes an action or behavior that is related to or involves crime, or to a degree that is considered criminal. It can also imply a sense of blameworthiness or reprehensibility. The word is often used in formal or official contexts, such as in legal or academic writing, but can also appear in informal contexts to emphasize the severity of someone's actions. For example, someone might be accused of criminally neglecting their duties or acting criminally recklessly. Overall, criminally is a useful word for describing actions that are serious and wrong, and it can help to convey a sense of gravity or severity. The word has multiple related senses, including describing actions that are illegal or morally reprehensible.
adverbIn a manner relating to or involving crime; to a degree that is considered criminal.
- In a criminal manner; to a degree that is criminal.
- To a degree that is considered blameworthy or reprehensible.
"The company was found to have been criminally negligent in their handling of the environmental disaster."
"The driver was charged with criminally negligent homicide."
"The company's actions were criminally irresponsible and resulted in significant financial losses."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of criminally
The adverb criminally originated in the late 16th century from the noun crime, which comes from the Old French crim, derived from the Latin crimen. The suffix -ally was added to form the adverb, which initially meant 'in a criminal manner.' Over time, the word developed additional senses, including 'to a degree that is considered blameworthy or reprehensible.'
Usage notes
Criminally often appears in formal or official contexts, such as legal or academic writing. It can also be used in informal contexts to emphasize the severity of someone's actions.