infraction
in-FRAK-shun
/ɪnˈfrækʃən/
A violation or infringement of a law, agreement, or set of rules.
Denotes a minor or moderate breach of written rules or policies rather than a major criminal felony.
The story behind the word. From Latin 'infractio', from 'infringere' (to break into pieces or shatter). It evolved in Late Middle English to signify the breaking of a contract or institutional rule.
Word relationships
- transgression: Transgression carries a moral or spiritual tone, while infraction relates strictly to institutional rules.
- breach: Breach often applies to contracts or security, whereas infraction applies to administrative codes.
- adherence: Adherence is staying strictly within established rules.
- observance: Observance means respecting and following regulations.
Commonly confused with
- fraction: A fraction is a small numerical part, while an infraction is a fracture or break of a rule.
Word family
- infringe (verb): To break or violate a rule or right.
Collocations
- minor infraction
- disciplinary infraction
- commit an infraction
- rule infraction
Idioms & expressions
- step out of line
- break the rules
Example sentences
- "Forged attendance signatures are treated as a serious disciplinary infraction under university guidelines." Classroom Management
- "Bringing a smartwatch into the testing room was classified as a minor technical infraction." Exam Regulations
Memory hook
An INFRACTION is a FRACTION of a crime — a broken rule. Breaking a rule
When not to use
Do not use for massive violent crimes or major atrocities.
Fun facts
- 'Infraction', 'fraction', 'fracture', and 'fragile' all come from the same Latin verb 'frangere' (to break).
Related words
Explore more words
infringement, transgression, misdemeanor, infringe, Breach, felony
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