broken a law

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "broken a law" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to someone who has violated legal statutes or regulations. Example: "The defendant was found guilty of having broken a law that prohibits theft."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

"You don't know you've broken a law until someone says you've broken a law".

The New York Times - Tech

This camera is amazing; surely Sony must have broken a law of physics or two.

The New York Times - Tech

It's also in the interests of justice when someone who has broken a law is forced to take responsibility for it.

The New Yorker

Le Monde also said that the Elysée had broken a law protecting press sources which had been strengthened by Mr Sarkozy's government less than a year ago.

Independent

"I have never broken a law, but I have circumvented most of them," he said, fingering his ever-present prayer beads, a mischievous glint in his eye.

The New York Times

But after the pictures turned up online Norma's mother, Arlene, looked up the New Jersey legal code and surmised that Morcos had broken a law.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

"They have to break a law".

The New York Times

"But he broke a law.

The Guardian - Film

"You think I broke a law?" he asked.

The New York Times

Illegal immigrants deserve punishment for breaking a law.

The New York Times

"If you break a law, there is a consequence for it".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing legal matters, ensure you specify the jurisdiction or type of law being referred to. For example, "broken a federal law" or "broken a state law" provides more clarity.

Common error

Avoid using the phrase without specifying the law that was allegedly broken. For example, instead of saying "he has "broken a law"", specify which law was violated.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "broken a law" functions as a verb phrase indicating that an individual or entity has contravened a legal statute. Ludwig indicates this phrase is grammatically sound and widely used, as shown by multiple examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Encyclopedias

10%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "broken a law" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to describe a violation of legal statutes. Ludwig's AI confirms its validity and widespread application. Its primary function is to report a legal transgression, and it is typically used in neutral to professional contexts, especially in news and legal discussions. When using this phrase, specificity regarding the law and jurisdiction enhances clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

disobeyed a law

Simple substitution of "broken" with "disobeyed".

violated a statute

Replaces "broken" with "violated" and "law" with the more formal "statute".

contravened a legal rule

Employs "contravened", indicating a direct contradiction of the rule.

breached the legal code

Uses more formal and legalistic language.

transgressed the law

Uses "transgressed" which implies a more serious or deliberate violation.

defied the legislation

Suggests open resistance or defiance of the law.

infringed a regulation

Substitutes "law" with "regulation" to denote a breach of specific rules.

flouted the rules

Implies a disregard or contempt for the established rules.

acted unlawfully

Changes the structure to focus on the act being unlawful rather than breaking a specific law.

committed an infraction

Replaces "broken a law" with the concept of committing a minor violation or infraction.

FAQs

What are some synonyms for "broken a law"?

Alternatives include "violated a statute", "transgressed the law", or "infringed a regulation". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired level of formality.

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

Both "break a law" and "violate a law" are correct, but "violate a law" often sounds more formal. The choice depends on the context and the desired tone. "Broken a law" is the past perfect form, used when discussing a past violation.

What is the difference between "breaking a law" and "disobeying a law"?

"Breaking a law" generally implies a more formal or serious violation, while "disobeying a law" can refer to a less serious infraction or a deliberate refusal to comply. The distinction is often subtle and context-dependent.

Can "broken a law" have different legal consequences depending on the type of law?

Yes, the legal consequences of having "broken a law" vary significantly based on the type and severity of the law that was violated. Consequences can range from fines to imprisonment.