infraction
in-FRACK-shun
/ɪnˈfræk.ʃən/
A violation or infringement of a rule, policy, or law.
Refers to a minor or routine offense rather than a major felony or violent crime.
The story behind the word. Late Latin infractio ('a breaking'), from infringere ('to break or violate'), combining in- ('into') and frangere ('to break'). An infraction is literally a small fracture in a set of rules.
Word relationships
- violation: 'Violation' is broader and can apply to severe human rights breaches; 'infraction' usually implies minor rules.
- offense: 'Offense' carries stronger criminal connotations than 'infraction'.
- compliance: 'Compliance' is adherence to rules, the direct opposite of breaking them.
- observance: 'Observance' means keeping or fulfilling rules and laws.
Commonly confused with
- fraction: 'Fraction' is a numerical part; 'infraction' is a fracture or break of a rule.
Word family
- infringe (verb): To actively break the terms of a law or agreement.
- infringement (noun): The action of breaking or violating a law or agreement.
Collocations
- minor infraction
- rule infraction
- commit an infraction
- disciplinary infraction
Example sentences
- "Chewing gum in class is considered a minor behavioral infraction." School Handbook
- "A traffic ticket for running a stop sign is classified as a civil infraction rather than a crime." Legal Context
Memory hook
An infraction is a fraction of a crime — a small broken rule. A small crack in the rules.
When not to use
Avoid using for severe criminal acts like murder or grand theft.
Fun facts
- In basketball, an 'infraction' like traveling results in losing ball possession, unlike a personal 'foul' which counts against the player.
Explore more words
infringement, transgression, misdemeanor, infringe, Breach, felony
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