Criminalness

/ˈkrɪmənəlnəs/ noun

Definition

The quality, state, or condition of being criminal or the degree to which something is criminal in nature.

Etymology

From criminal + -ness (Old English suffix creating abstract nouns from adjectives). A straightforward formation used since the 18th century in legal and moral philosophy.

Kelly Says

This word captures a fuzzy boundary—is something 'criminal' because a law says so, or because it's morally wrong? The 'criminalness' of an act depends on where you're asking the question.

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