break the law

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "break the law" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to any act that violates a law or legal code. For example: "The criminal was arrested for breaking the law when he robbed the bank."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"To break the law".

The New York Times

They break the law".

The New Yorker

They wouldn't break the law".

The Guardian

Did Mancini break the law?

The New York Times

Did Snowden break the law?

The New Yorker

"But I did not break the law.

The New York Times

"People wearing uniforms also break the law.

The New York Times

"He didn't break the law.

The New York Times - Arts

You can't break the law.

The Guardian

"We don't break the law".

The New York Times

"Did they break the law?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing legal matters, use "break the law" to clearly and directly indicate a violation of established legal rules. This phrase is widely understood and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "break the law" when the situation involves minor rule infractions or ethical compromises. "Break the law" indicates a serious legal violation, whereas "bend the rules" implies a less severe departure from established norms.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "break the law" functions as a verbal phrase, where "break" is the verb and "the law" is the object. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. It describes an action that contravenes established legal rules.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "break the law" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe an action that violates legal regulations. Ludwig AI validates this usage, noting its frequent appearance in diverse contexts, primarily in news and media. While alternatives like "violate the law" exist, "break the law" maintains a widely understood and neutral tone. To ensure clarity in writing, remember that "break the law" denotes a serious legal infraction and shouldn't be confused with minor rule-bending. Understanding the context in which the phrase is used is important to prevent ambiguity and ensure accurate legal and ethical representation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

violate the law

Uses a more formal verb, "violate", implying a serious transgression against the legal system.

infringe the law

Suggests a less direct or significant violation, perhaps an encroachment rather than a complete breach.

be in violation of the law

A more descriptive phrase, specifying the state of being non-compliant with the law.

contravene the law

A more formal and less common alternative, implying a direct contradiction of the law.

flout the law

Emphasizes a deliberate and open disregard for the law.

disobey the law

Focuses on the act of not following or complying with the law.

transgress the law

A somewhat archaic term, highlighting the crossing of a legal boundary.

run afoul of the law

Indicates an unintentional or accidental violation of the law.

defy the law

Suggests a bold and resistant opposition to the law.

commit an offense

Refers to the act of doing something that is against the law; a broader term that encompasses various illegal activities.

FAQs

What are some synonyms for "break the law"?

Alternatives include "violate the law", "infringe the law", and "contravene the law". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired level of formality.

Is it better to say "break the law" or "violate the law"?

Both phrases are correct, but "violate the law" is generally considered more formal. "Break the law" is more common in everyday conversation.

What does it mean to "break the law"?

To "break the law" means to commit an act that is prohibited and punishable by the legal system. It indicates a transgression against established legal rules and regulations.

How can I use "break the law" in a sentence?

Example: "The suspect was arrested for allegedly breaking the law." You can also say, "Nobody wants to "break the law" because it's fun to break the law..."