recidivism
rih-SID-ih-viz-um
/rɪˈsɪdɪvɪzəm/
The tendency of a convicted criminal to reoffend.
A technical term used in statistics and sociology to measure the failure of the penal system to reform individuals.
The story behind the word. Derived from the Latin 'recidere', which means 'to fall back.' It combines 're-' (back) and 'cadere' (to fall). It entered the English language via French 'récidivisme' in the 19th century as criminology became a formal science.
Word relationships
- relapse: Relapse is typically used for medical or addiction contexts, while recidivism is for criminal behavior.
- rehabilitation: Rehabilitation is the success of reform; recidivism is the failure of it.
Commonly confused with
- repetition: Repetition is simply doing something again; recidivism is specifically 'falling back' into crime.
Word family
- recidivist (noun): A person who repeatedly commits crimes.
Collocations
- recidivism rate
- prevent recidivism
- high recidivism
Example sentences
- "Recidivism rates remain stubbornly high despite the introduction of new vocational programs in prisons." Criminology report.
- "The goal of the new diversion program is to lower recidivism among first-time offenders." Policy debate.
Memory hook
Recidivism: The 'sid' (sit) 'back' into crime. Falling back into the same old trap.
When not to use
Do not use for minor repeated mistakes in daily life (e.g., forgetting keys); it is strictly for criminal behavior.
Fun facts
- The term was first popularized by French sociologists who were trying to track 'habitual' criminals in the 1800s.
Related words
Explore more words
rehabilitation, recurrent, incarceration, convict, parole, suspect
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