committed an offense

USAGE SUMMARY

"committed an offense" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where someone has broken a law or rule. Example: He was found guilty of committing an offense against the local ordinance.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

If he should know, and by negligence does not know, he has committed an offense.

University of California, Berkeley

If the accused has 'possession' he has committed an offense, absent satisfactory explanation therefor.

Cornell University

If he has committed an offense against their laws, their tribunals alone can punish him.

Cornell University

"We totally refute any charges that we have committed an offense and we will defend our position robustly," they said.

The New York Times

Kramer pointed out that accrued good-behavior credit was erased if an inmate committed an offense while incarcerated.

The Washington Post

"Is the state required to prove every day that someone committed an offense beyond a reasonable doubt?" Mr. Nixon asked.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

11 human-written examples

He has denied committing an offense.

The New York Times - Sports

an attempt to commit an offense punishable under this subparagraph.

Cornell University

"You're not saying these people didn't commit an offense.

The New York Times

Whoever attempts to commit an offense under paragraph (1) or conspires to commit an offense under paragraph (1) or (2) shall be punished as prescribed in subsection (c).

Cornell University

"We have to understand: Did the Prosecutor General's children commit an offense or not?

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing legal matters, use "committed an offense" to maintain a formal and precise tone. This phrase is suitable for legal documents, news reports, and academic papers.

Common error

Avoid using "committed an offense" to describe trivial mistakes or unintentional errors. Reserve this phrase for actions that violate rules, laws, or ethical standards. Instead, use words like "error", "mistake", or "oversight" for minor infractions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "committed an offense" functions as a verbal phrase within a sentence, typically acting as the predicate. It describes the action of breaking a law, rule, or standard. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Academia

28%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Wiki

5%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "committed an offense" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to describe the action of breaking a law or rule. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability in various contexts. It is most commonly found in "News & Media" and "Academia", suggesting its relevance in both reporting and formal analysis. While it maintains a neutral register, it's crucial to reserve it for actual violations rather than minor errors. Related phrases include "perpetrated a crime" and "violated a law", offering alternative ways to express similar concepts. Remember to use this phrase when accuracy and clarity are essential, especially in legal or formal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

perpetrated a crime

Replaces "offense" with the stronger term "crime", suggesting a more serious violation.

violated a law

Specifies that the "offense" involves breaking a legal rule or statute.

broke the law

A more direct and common way to say someone violated a law.

engaged in misconduct

Broader term encompassing any inappropriate or unethical behavior.

acted unlawfully

Focuses on the illegal nature of the action.

transgressed against the rules

Emphasizes the violation of established rules or regulations.

carried out an infringement

Highlights the violation of a right or regulation.

was culpable of wrongdoing

Focuses on the blameworthiness of the action.

did something illegal

Simplifies the concept to its core element of illegality.

defied an order

Highlights the act of disobedience against an authoritative directive.

FAQs

What does "committed an offense" mean?

The phrase "committed an offense" means that someone has broken a law, rule, or standard of conduct. It is used to describe actions that are illegal or against established regulations.

What is a more formal way to say "committed an offense"?

A more formal way to say "committed an offense" is "perpetrated a crime", particularly when referring to more serious violations.

How do I use "committed an offense" in a sentence?

You can use "committed an offense" in a sentence like: "The suspect was arrested after allegedly committing an offense against public order." It indicates that a specific rule or law has been violated.

What's the difference between "committed an offense" and "made a mistake"?

"Committed an offense" implies a violation of a law, rule, or code of conduct, often with legal consequences. "Made a mistake", on the other hand, refers to an unintentional error or slip-up that doesn't necessarily involve breaking a law or rule.