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IELTS Writing Task 2 Topic: Many offenders commit more crimes after serving the first punishment

Janice Thompson

Updated On Jan 12, 2024

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IELTS Writing Task 2 Topic: Many offenders commit more crimes after serving the first punishment

IELTS Writing Prediction Questions for 2024

In IELTS Writing Task 2, students are asked to write a formal essay of at least 250 words, in 4-5 paragraphs based on the given writing task 2 essay topics. The task is similar for both Academic and General Training with regards to the type of questions and the scoring, but the topics given for General Training will be slightly easier than Academic. Given below is a cause and solution essay with sample answers that will help you to practise and get a good score.

Many offenders commit more crimes after serving the first punishment. Why is this happening, and what measures can be taken to tackle this problem?

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Cause/ Solution Essay 

Introduction

Introduce the essay topic and paraphrase it by giving a proper preface. Then, state the essay’s intent in two subsequent paragraphs, i.e., the causes and solutions for the essay topic. 

Paragraph 1: A large proportion of criminals leave prison only to reoffend, owing to a lack of rehabilitation and reskilling opportunities in prison

Paragraph 2: These criminals can take effective measures to keep engaged in activities that will help them acquire new skills.  

Conclusion 

State the solution 

Sample Essay

Most criminals tend to commit crimes again, once they are released from jail. This is mainly because of the lack of rehabilitation in prisons and also the difficulty they face in finding employment. There are a lot of solutions to overcome this situation. In this essay, we will explain why the criminals commit the same crime again and the reasons to overcome this.

The main reason for the repetition of crimes is the lack of reskilling options in jails. Since they are unable to find the right employment, they resort to unfair means to earn their daily bread. Another reason is that there aren’t strict laws to keep them under control.

  Some effective measures are imposing strict punishments and improving their skills like craft making, fashion designing, catering and so on. They will be engaged in work once they are out of prison and become self-sustained.

To sum up, the government must closely monitor the criminals even after they are out of prison and ensure that there is a reduction in crime rate so that we can make the world a better place to live in. 

Band 9 Sample Essay

Several criminals are likely to commit other offences after serving their initial term, owing to their incapacity to maintain economic stability and difficulty finding suitable employment. However, there are several options for dealing with this scenario, such as providing financial assistance and instilling the necessary skills. This essay will look at why criminals commit the same crimes over and over again and how to avoid them.

To begin with, most first-time convicts commit crimes after serving their first sentence due to the lack of employment options and opportunities to retrain and master new skills to make a living. Moreover, since society does not accept the convicts as respectable people anymore, they join hands with their criminal friends and perpetuate the same crimes, such as pickpocketing or robbing, to make ends meet and avail basic necessities. As a result, the financial hardships of the perpetrators prompt them to recommit the crimes regardless of the repercussions.

There are some viable measures to rehabiliate habitual criminals. The government can provide financial assistance to them after they complete their sentence as this will help them stabilize their economic status and make a living for themselves. The government can also ensure that criminals have the opportunity to retrain vital skills while in prison, as this will help them find stable work after their sentence is over and will improve their reintegration into society and financial development.

To sum up, the convicts recommit the crimes owing to a lack of financial help, job opportunities, and rehabilitation. Still, crime rates would drop considerably if the government implemented the above-mentioned measures and kept a close eye on first-time offenders once set free.

  • Rehabilitation  

Meaning: the action of restoring someone to a healthy or normal life through training and therapy after imprisonment, addiction, or illness  Eg: The older woman was sent to a rehabilitation centre. 

Meaning: succeed in dealing with (a problem or difficulty) Eg: It was difficult for John to overcome the loss of his pet. 

Meaning: teach (a person, especially an unemployed person) new skills  Eg: The University started a reskilling program for the students. 

  • Repetition  

Meaning: the action of repeating something that has already been said or written. Eg: The staff was fired due to her repetition of mistakes. 

  • Earn (one’s) daily bread 

Meaning: to do work of any kind for a living Eg: The man earned his daily bread by working at a construction site. 

  • Self-sustaining 

Meaning: able to continue in a healthy state without outside assistance  Eg: Kay was self-sustaining from his business. 

Meaning: observe and check the progress or quality of (something) over a period of time  Eg: The teacher monitored the students during the exam. 

Meaning: make certain that (something) will occur or be the case   Eg: My mother ensured that I scored good marks. 

Meaning: turn to and adopt (a course of action, especially an extreme or undesirable one) so as to resolve a difficult situation.  Eg: Jill had to resort to a loan from the bank. 

Meaning: force (an unwelcome decision or ruling) on someone  Eg: The government imposed strict travel restrictions. 

Some people believe that there should be fixed punishments for each type of crime. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion

Many people argue whether every crime should have a fixed punishment. Some people disagree saying that the motive and intent of the crime must be found out.

It is believed that if the criminals are given fixed punishments, they will be more careful while performing their daily activities and will fear to do unlawful activities. This may turn advantageous to society. 

If the punishments are fixed, a lot of time and money will be saved. If different sentences are to be given, the government might have to spend more money on lawyers and on enforcing security measures. Instead of spending money on these purposes, it can be used for other sectors like education, development of society and so on.

On the other side, people think that having the same punishment for every crime may not bring justice in a real sense, because some crimes are unintentional. To avoid this, the punishments must be given knowing the real reason behind them.

Thus we can say that the main focus should be on serving equal justice to the people. There is no point in giving the same punishment for all crimes because no two crimes are of the same motive.

Other essays related to Crime and Punishment

There are also other related essays that you can make use of while practicing for writing task 2 essays. The list is given below:

  • Juvenile Criminal
  • Some people say that when children under 18 are committing a crime they should be punished, while others believe they should be educated. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? Give your own opinion.
  • Studies show that criminals get a low level of education. Some people believe that the best way to reduce crime is by educating people in prison so they can get a job after leaving prison. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
  • In some countries, a high proportion of criminal acts are committed by teenagers. Why has this happened? What can be done to deal with this?
  • Some people who have been in prison become good citizens later. Some people think that having these people to give a talk to school students is the best way to tell them about the dangers of committing a crime. Do you agree or disagree?

More Writing Task 2 Essay Topics

  • Some People Prefer to Spend Their Lives Doing The Same Things and Avoiding Change
  • Some People Believe That Reading Stories From a Book is Better Than Watching Tv or Playing Computer Games for Children.
  • Some People Say That Economic Growth Is The Only Way to End Hunger and Poverty
  • Scientific Research Should Be Carried Out and Controlled by the Government
  • The Tradition of Families Getting Together to Eat Meals is Disappearing
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  • Advantage and Disadvantage Essays
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Proven tips to score Band 9 in IELTS Writing

Janice Thompson

Janice Thompson

Soon after graduating with a Master’s in Literature from Southern Arkansas University, she joined an institute as an English language trainer. She has had innumerous student interactions and has produced a couple of research papers on English language teaching. She soon found that non-native speakers struggled to meet the English language requirements set by foreign universities. It was when she decided to jump ship into IELTS training. From then on, she has been mentoring IELTS aspirants. She joined IELTSMaterial about a year ago, and her contributions have been exceptional. Her essay ideas and vocabulary have taken many students to a band 9.

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Crime and punishment IELTS model essay with vocabulary

Our band nine sample essays give you the opportunity to learn from successful essays that show off the best structure, vocabulary and grammar. This IELTS essay on crime and punishment explores the advantages and disadvantages of harsh punishment for criminals.

band Nine Sample Essay

In some countries, crimes are punished harshly. what are some advantages and disadvantages of this approach.

Several nations have opted to implement a system of strict penalties, such as long jail sentences and execution, for crimes. In this essay, I will explore the advantage that this is a good deterrent with the disadvantage that this harms rehabilitation .

Punitive measures can help deter future crime. If people can see that crimes will be punished harshly, they are far less likely to want to commit a crime . Because people consider risk versus reward before acting, making crime as risky as possible by increasing punishment can stop criminals. Conversely, when countries have light punishments for crimes like shoplifting , people in those countries might feel like it is worth the risk to do these crimes.

However, these strong punishments also increase recidivism by failing to rehabilitate people. One of the main purposes of sending people to prison is to prevent them from committing crimes when they leave; however, making prisons and other punishments too strict works against this purpose. When criminals have a heavily punitive experience, they lose self-confidence and become distrustful of authority , meaning they are more likely to be involved in crime when they leave prison. Alternatively, if prisoners have access to training and support, such as drug rehabilitation programs and anger management classes, they are far more likely to rejoin society in a productive way. 

In conclusion, the correct punishment for crimes is a complex issue. On the one hand, strong measures deter crime; on the other hand, the same measures make it more likely for prisoners to reoffend .

crime and punishment vocabulary

Although crime and punishment is a common topic in the IELTS exam, there, thankfully, is not too much vocabulary you need to know for it. Let’s take a look at some of the high level vocabulary in this answer to kick start your learning.

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crime and punishment essay 250 words

crime and punishment essay 250 words

An Essay on Crimes and Punishments

  • Cesare Bonesana di Beccaria (author)
  • Voltaire (author)

An extremely influential Enlightenment treatise on legal reform in which Beccaria advocates the ending of torture and the death penalty. The book also contains a lengthy commentary by Voltaire which is an indication of high highly French enlightened thinkers regarded the work.

  • EBook PDF This text-based PDF or EBook was created from the HTML version of this book and is part of the Portable Library of Liberty.
  • ePub ePub standard file for your iPad or any e-reader compatible with that format
  • Facsimile PDF This is a facsimile or image-based PDF made from scans of the original book.
  • Kindle This is an E-book formatted for Amazon Kindle devices.

An Essay on Crimes and Punishments. By the Marquis Beccaria of Milan. With a Commentary by M. de Voltaire. A New Edition Corrected. (Albany: W.C. Little & Co., 1872).

The text is in the public domain.

  • United States

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Crime and Punishment [IELTS Topics]

Posted by David S. Wills | Nov 20, 2020 | IELTS Tips | 0

Crime and Punishment [IELTS Topics]

If you have practised for IELTS writing, then you have more than likely encountered the IELTS topic of crime and punishment . I am not talking about the book by Russian novelist , Fyodor Dostoevsky. Instead, I mean the general topic that covers issues relating to crime, criminals, police, the law, and methods of punishing lawbreakers.

This is a pretty common topic in IELTS writing and also in the speaking test, so today I would like to show you some useful vocabulary and also to run through some crime and punishment IELTS essays so that you can better understand this topic.

IELTS Vocabulary for Crime and Punishment

If you want to prepare for the topic of crime and punishment, then you should learn some vocabulary to help you discuss it with ease. A great way to start is to read some news articles about crime. You can try searching your favourite English-language news source. I recommend the BBC , but any high-quality news outlet is fine. You might also find it useful to search Wikipedia for crime-related topics, such as “ capital punishment .” These will invariably contain many useful words. For example:

wikipedia article on capital punishment with highlighted vocabulary

Of course, I usually stress that you should not just learn words in isolation. Try to learn groups of words that commonly go together or longer phrases that might help you. For example, you could learn some adjectives and nouns that go together:

  • law-abiding citizens
  • hardened criminals

It is also worth noting that the word “criminal” can be a noun or an adjective:

  • criminal behaviour (adjective)
  • an unrepentant criminal (noun)

Notice that I am mixing adjectives and nouns to provide more accurate and also colourful language. This is a good way to improve your writing skills – but of course it only helps when the language is used accurately.

Here is a video that I recently made covering the topic of crime and punishment as it relates to IELTS. This includes some useful vocabulary to talk about the court system:

  • attorney vs solicitor
  • capital punishment and its synonyms
  • jail vs prison

More Vocabulary: Types of Crime and Criminals

If you want to talk about crime, then it would be useful to know the name of various crimes and also the criminal associated with them. Here’s a list of crime words I made for you:

CrimeCriminal
ArsonArsonist
BlackmailBlackmailer
BurglaryBurglar
ExtorsionExtortionist
FraudFraud
HackingHacker
MurderMurderer
RapeRapist
RobberyRobber
ScamScammer
StalkingStalker
TerrorismTerrorist
TheftThief

IELTS Speaking: Crime and Punishment

The topic of crime and punishment could be considered quite controversial in some ways. Think about the issues that arise: imprisonment, violence, reforming criminals. These are serious issues that cannot be summed up in short sentences without further justification. As such, this is not a common topic for part one of the speaking test.

Likewise, you probably would not be asked to talk about this for part two. Can you imagine if the cue card said, “Describe a criminal you know?” 🤨 That would not really be appropriate. It has the potential to make people feel embarrassed or ashamed or even to completely draw a blank.

Therefore, crime and punishment mostly arises in part three of the IELTS speaking test. This is where you are asked about bigger issues that require more thought and explanation. These can be viewed as similar to the sorts of question you see in task two of the writing exam.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 Questions: Crime

ielts speaking questions about crime

Here are some example questions and answers from part three of the speaking test:

Q: Do you think that young criminals should be sent to prison for serious crimes?

A: No, I do not think that it is right to send young offenders to prison. In fact, that seems to be the worst way to deal with them. In any advanced society, juvenile delinquents should be dealt with through education, with the intention of reforming them into law-abiding adults. Sending them to jail or prison simply puts them in contact with other criminals and makes them more likely to commit further offenses.

Q: What do you think makes people commit acts of violent crime?

A: Well, crimes have different motivations. Some are committed out of desperation and others are crimes of passion. In other words, they are spur-of-the-moment offenses that had no forethought. Then there are other crimes that are definitely pre-meditated. These are the worst ones and probably the hardest to pin down in terms of motivation. In any case, it is hard to say what makes people do these things, except that it depends entirely upon the individual case.

Q: Do you think that video games encourage young people to commit crimes?

A: No, absolutely not, and the scientific consensus nowadays appears to back that stance. The idea that video games encourage people to commit crimes is laughable. If this was true, we would have to go and censor TV and books, and even change how we report the news. People who are going to commit crimes do so for a variety of reasons, but to suggest that they do it to imitate a game is quite absurd. If someone really did claim that their crime was inspired by a computer game, they would probably be lying or else they had underlying mental issues that made them particularly susceptible to outside influences.

Crime and Punishment IELTS Essay Topics

This topic is much more common in the writing exam than other parts because it requires the expression of complex ideas. As such, you will see many IELTS writing task 2 questions about crime and punishment.

Common sub-topics include:

  • young people and crime
  • capital punishment
  • reasons for criminal behaviour
  • reforming offenders

Crime and Punishment IELTS Essay

Here is a quite representative task 2 essay question:

Some people think that offenders should be put in prison. Others, however, believe that providing offenders with education and training is more effective than putting them in prison. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

Sample Band 9 Answer

For thousands of years, people have discussed the different ways of dealing with criminals, and even in the modern era there is a great degree of disagreement on this subject. Some believe that prison is an effective measure, but others argue that education and training would be better. This essay will look at both sides of the argument and then argue in favour of a balanced approach.

For centuries, prisons have been used as a way of both punishing criminals and keeping them away from law-abiding citizens. Although it works as a deterrent and also as a practical means of keeping society safe, it is not without its controversy. For one thing, prisons are notorious hubs of gang activity, and impressionable young lawbreakers can easily be moulded into hardened criminals during a short stint behind bars. Moreover, prisons are violent places where young offenders can be raped, beaten, or even killed during their sentence, and when they are released they carry with them the stigma of their incarceration. This means that they will struggle to return to normal society and, for this reason, recidivism rates can be quite high in some places. Thus, although prisons are an effective means of punishing people and keeping society safe, they are not without substantial problems.

On the other hand, educating and training criminals is controversial because people tend to think of it as overly lenient. Many law-abiding citizens believe that those who break the law should be punished harshly or else there is little reason to adhere to the rules. However, this approach should not be seen as rewarding criminals but rather rehabilitating people who were pushed to extreme actions by their unfortunate circumstances. Statistically, most prison inmates come from backgrounds of poverty and abuse, so giving them a helping hand can be more beneficial than punishing them and then hoping that they do not return to a life of crime.

In conclusion, this is an extremely complex issue that requires serious scrutiny, but it appears as though prison should be reserved only for violent and habitual offenders while the majority of petty criminals should be dealt with through education and training.

Notes on the Answer

There was a lot of great vocabulary in this answer for the purposes of a descriptive and thoughtful essay:

  • impressionable young lawbreakers
  • a short stint behind bars
  • the stigma of their incarceration
  • recidivism rates
  • rehabilitating
  • requires serious scrutiny
  • petty criminals

Task 1 – Crime-related Essays

For IELTS writing task 1, it is also possible that you could have to describe data about crime. This is harder to predict because it really could be about almost anything, but here is an example of a line graph about various types of criminal activity:

newport crime rate line graph

The line graph shows changes in crime rates over a ten-year period in the city centre of Newport. Three types of crimes are listed, two of which ended the period at roughly similar levels to where they began, and one experienced a major drop.

In 2003, which was the beginning of the recorded period, burglary was the most common type of crime in Newport, with just under 3,500 cases reported. This rose slightly the following year, before entering into a long downward trend, reaching a low of about 1,200 in 2008. After this, the number of burglaries reported fluctuated until 2012.

The number of car thefts was about 2,800 in 2003, and ended the period slightly lower, at 2,700. During the decade-long period, it fluctuated, reaching low points in 2006 and 2008. Car theft was the second most common type of crime in 2003, but the fall in burglaries meant that from 2008 onwards, they were the most common crime in Newport.

Robberies were the least common crime and followed a somewhat similar trend to that of car thefts, starting and ending the period with around 700 incidents. It fluctuated only slightly during the ten-year period.

This essay originally appeared here .

About The Author

David S. Wills

David S. Wills

David S. Wills is the author of Scientologist! William S. Burroughs and the 'Weird Cult' and the founder/editor of Beatdom literary journal. He lives and works in rural Cambodia and loves to travel. He has worked as an IELTS tutor since 2010, has completed both TEFL and CELTA courses, and has a certificate from Cambridge for Teaching Writing. David has worked in many different countries, and for several years designed a writing course for the University of Worcester. In 2018, he wrote the popular IELTS handbook, Grammar for IELTS Writing and he has since written two other books about IELTS. His other IELTS website is called IELTS Teaching.

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Essay 102 – Fixed punishments for each type of crime

Gt writing task 2 / essay sample # 102.

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Some people believe that there should be fixed punishments for each type of crime. Others, however, argue that the circumstances of an individual crime, and the motivation for committing it, should always be taken into account when deciding on the punishment.

Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Model Answer 1:

Punishments are instrumental in the interest of retaining confidence in the rule of law. Many people believe that criminals ought to be subject to fixed punishments for each crime, while others opine that the circumstances of a particular crime and the motive behind it should be considered before punishing someone. In this case, I believe a fixed sentence for crimes is unfair and factors behind a breach of law should always be investigated.

To commence with, fixed punishments limit the judge’s discretion in deciding punishment. In fact, the legislatures introduce mandatory sentencing laws to end judicial leniency and treat all criminals equally who commit the same crime. The proponents of fixed punishment go on arguing that it is the most appropriate remedy; since there are certain kinds of crimes that are premeditated. A case in point is traffic rule violation in which most punishments are set. This ensures the same treatment for all violators.

Having said that, many liberals believe that criminal statutes should not carry fixed sentences. According to their argument, judges ought to take into account several factors, such as the circumstances under which the crime was committed, the reason behind it, the background of the accuser and so on. In simple words, judges can examine all information, which is reasonably pertinent to the defendant’s culpability. There are situations in which the defendant has not committed the crime with deliberate intention and he or she should not be treated like a recurring offender who makes crime a habit. For example, suppose a man merely tries to save himself and his family from an armed robber while committing the murder accidentally. If there is a mandatory sentence for murder, then the man will receive severe punishment. In this case, the man will be the victim of a miscarriage of justice.

In conclusion, although fixed punishment can treat all criminals equally, judges should consider some vital factors, such as circumstances, motives and so forth. Personally, I believe that fixed laws should not limit the judge and jury’s discretion in determining punishment.

Model Answer 2:

The question of whether there should be fixed punishments for every kind of crime or if the circumstances and grounds of a crime should be considered when deciding on the punishment has been a subject of debate. This essay will explore both perspectives. In my opinion, a balanced approach is more practical and upholds fair and impartial justice in society.

Supporters of fixed punishments argue that they provide consistency, clarity, and fairness in the criminal justice system. They believe that categorising crimes and assigning predetermined punishments ensures that everyone is treated equally under the law. This approach eliminates potential biases and ensures that similar crimes receive similar penalties, promoting a sense of justice and deterrence. For example, proponents argue that mandatory minimum sentences for certain offences discourage potential criminals by establishing clear consequences.

On the other hand, proponents of considering the circumstances and motivation of a crime argue that such factors are critical in determining an appropriate punishment. They contend that a rigid system of fixed punishments fails to account for the complexities and unique circumstances of individual cases. By taking into account the context, mitigating factors, and intent behind a crime, the justice system can better tailor the punishment to fit the specific circumstances. For instance, a person who committed theft out of desperation due to financial hardships may require a different approach compared to someone who committed theft for personal gain.

In my opinion, a balanced approach is necessary. While fixed punishments provide consistency, they risk overlooking important factors that could influence the severity of a crime. Recognizing the circumstances and motivation behind an offence allows for a more nuanced assessment of the situation, promoting a fairer and more effective justice system.

In conclusion, while fixed punishments offer clarity and uniformity, taking individual factors into account allows for a more tailored and just approach. Ultimately, a combination of both approaches is crucial to ensure a fair and effective criminal justice system that considers the complexities of each case while upholding the principles of justice and deterrence.

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Essay on Crime

Students are often asked to write an essay on Crime in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Crime

Understanding crime.

Crime refers to acts that violate the law. They are considered harmful and punishable by a governing authority. Crimes can range from theft to murder.

Types of Crimes

There are various types of crimes. Violent crimes include actions like assault, while theft falls under property crimes. White-collar crimes involve fraud or embezzlement.

Consequences of Crime

Crimes have severe consequences. They can lead to imprisonment, fines, or even death penalties. Moreover, they harm communities and individuals, causing fear and damage.

Preventing Crime

Preventing crime involves law enforcement, education, and community programs. Everyone can contribute to a safer society by obeying laws and reporting suspicious activities.

250 Words Essay on Crime

Introduction.

Crime, a pervasive aspect of society, is an act that violates a law and is punishable by the state. It disruptively breaches societal norms, creating a sense of insecurity and fear. This essay delves into the nature of crime, its causes, and the role of law enforcement.

The Nature of Crime

Crime is a complex phenomenon, varying across cultures and societies. It ranges from minor offences like theft to severe ones like homicide. The nature of crime reflects societal values, as what is considered criminal is determined by the prevailing legal and moral code.

Causes of Crime

The causes of crime are multifaceted, involving biological, psychological, and sociological factors. Biological theories suggest genetic predispositions towards criminal behaviour. Psychological theories focus on the individual’s mental processes and their interaction with the environment. Sociological theories, on the other hand, emphasize societal structures and inequalities as major crime contributors.

Law Enforcement and Crime

Law enforcement agencies play a crucial role in maintaining order, preventing crime, and ensuring justice. They function as a deterrent, keeping potential criminals in check. However, their effectiveness is contingent upon their ability to adapt to evolving criminal tactics.

In conclusion, crime is a societal issue with deep roots in individual and social structures. Understanding its nature and causes is key to formulating effective strategies for prevention and control. As society evolves, so too must our approach to understanding and combating crime.

500 Words Essay on Crime

Crime, a social and legal concept, has been a part of human society since its inception. It refers to the actions that violate the norms and laws of a society, leading to harm or potential harm to individuals or the community. The study of crime, its causes, effects, and prevention, is a crucial aspect of sociology, psychology, and criminology.

Crime is a complex phenomenon, varying across societies and times. It is not static but evolves with societal norms and legal frameworks. What may be considered a crime in one society may not be in another, and similarly, what was a crime in the past might not be so today. For instance, homosexuality was once criminalized in many societies, but it is now widely accepted and decriminalized.

Types of Crime

Crimes are generally categorized into personal crimes, property crimes, inchoate crimes, statutory crimes, and financial crimes. Personal crimes involve direct harm or threat to an individual, such as assault or robbery. Property crimes involve interfering with another person’s property, like burglary or theft. Inchoate crimes are those that were started but not completed, while statutory crimes are violations of specific statutes. Financial crimes, such as fraud or embezzlement, involve the illegal conversion of property ownership.

The causes of crime are multifaceted, often interwoven with societal, psychological, and economic factors. Poverty, lack of education, substance abuse, and family violence are some common societal factors leading to crime. Psychological factors include personality disorders, low self-control, and aggression. Economic factors, such as unemployment or income inequality, also contribute significantly to crime rates.

Effects of Crime

Crime prevention strategies are as diverse as the causes of crime. They include social strategies, such as improving education and employment opportunities, and legal strategies, such as effective law enforcement and fair judicial systems. Psychological interventions, like counseling and therapy, can also play a significant role in crime prevention.

Understanding crime is essential to creating a safe and harmonious society. By examining its nature, types, causes, effects, and prevention, we can develop effective strategies to reduce crime rates and mitigate its impact on individuals and communities. It is a collective responsibility that requires the concerted efforts of individuals, communities, and governments.

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crime and punishment essay 250 words

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IELTS essay Crime and Punishment

Crime and punishment.

This blog teaches you how to write essays on the topic of Crime and Punishment.

It includes the following:

𝐊𝐞𝐲 𝐕𝐨𝐜𝐚𝐛𝐮𝐥𝐚𝐫𝐲:

𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞:

𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐨𝐧 𝐀𝐫𝐠𝐮𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐃𝐞𝐛𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬:

  • 𝐄𝐱𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐂𝐮𝐫𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐄𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬:

𝐌𝐨𝐝𝐞𝐥 𝐄𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐲:

  • Capital Punishment: the legally authorized killing of someone as punishment for a crime.
  • Detention: the action of detaining someone or the state of being detained in official custody.
  • Forensics: scientific tests or techniques used in connection with the detection of crime.
  • Incarceration: the state of being confined in prison; imprisonment.
  • Juvenile Delinquency: the habitual committing of criminal acts or offenses by a young person, particularly one below the age at which ordinary criminal prosecution is possible.
  • Misdemeanor: a minor wrongdoing; a non-indictable offense, regarded in the US (and formerly in the UK) as less serious than a felony.
  • Probation: the release of an offender from detention, subject to a period of good behavior under supervision.
  • Rehabilitation: the action of restoring someone to health or normal life through training and therapy after imprisonment, addiction, or illness.
  • Restorative Justice: a system of criminal justice that focuses on the rehabilitation of offenders through reconciliation with victims and the community at large.
  • Sentencing: the declaration of a punishment assigned to a defendant found guilty by a court, or fixed by law for a particular offense.

Crime and punishment are critical components of any society’s legal and moral framework, reflecting how a community upholds justice and social order. This topic encompasses the various aspects of the criminal justice system, the ethics of punishment, and the effectiveness of different punitive measures. Understanding these elements is essential for fostering a safer, more just society.

Debates in the realm of crime and punishment often revolve around the effectiveness and morality of various forms of punishment, such as capital punishment versus life imprisonment. Proponents of harsher sentencing argue that severe penalties deter crime more effectively. In contrast, advocates for rehabilitative approaches emphasize the potential for reducing recidivism through programs focused on reintegrating offenders into society. Another area of contention is the application of restorative justice and its role in healing communities versus traditional punitive measures.

𝐄𝐱𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐂𝐮𝐫𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐄𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬: Internationally, the debate over the abolition of the death penalty in various countries continues to evoke strong opinions on both sides.

Some people believe that there should be fixed punishments for each type of crime. Others, however, argue that the circumstances of an individual crime and the motivation for committing it should always be taken into account when deciding on the punishment.

Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

Some people believe that a uniform set of legal consequences should be applied to all offences, while others contend that the specific details and reasons behind each crime should be taken into account when determining the suitable penalty. This essay discusses both views and explains why I believe that the best approach would utilise both types of sentences depending on the severity of the case.

Advocates for fixed legal consequences have two main arguments. The main one is that a standardised approach ensures equality in the justice system. For instance, traffic violations typically incur set fines, which means that all lawbreakers receive the same penalty for the same criminal acts. Moreover, victims of crimes can feel that equity is upheld. This is because they can have clear expectations about the punishment perpetrators will receive.

Conversely, people who believe it is better to decide the penalty on a case-by-case basis, argue that such an approach neglects the nuances of individual cases. They assert that true justice requires consideration of the context of each crime, such as any mitigating circumstances. For instance, killing a person in self-defence should be treated differently than premeditated murder. Furthermore, in some cases where the perpetrator has suffered from an unusually harsh background, rehabilitation should be prioritised over retribution. For example, addiction or mental health issues may warrant treatment and support rather than strict prison sentences.

In conclusion, I believe both sides of the argument have merits. However, an ideal approach is to use fixed disciplinary actions for minor offences as they offer clarity and deterrence; however, for major offences where the consequences are severe, the circumstances should be considered to account for the intricacies of each case.

𝐒𝐞𝐞 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐨𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐬 𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞:

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crime and punishment essay 250 words

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IELTS band 9 essay: death penalty

Here you can find advice how to structure IELTS essay and IELTS model answer for death penalty topic. Question type: advantages and disadvantages .

Here is the question card:

Some people advocate death penalty for those who committed violent crimes. Others say that capital punishment is unacceptable in contemporary society.

Describe advantages and disadvantages of death penalty and give your opinion.

So this is the advantage/disadvantage essay. In this essay you're asked about :

  • Advantages of capital punishment
  • Disadvantages of capital punishment
  • Your opinion about it

Before writing this IELTS essay, you should decide what’s your opinion and then choose your arguments to describe pros and cons of death penalty. You don’t have to make up very complicate ideas. Even simple, but well-written arguments can often give you a band 9 for writing .

Some of the possible arguments :

  • Disadvantages of capital punishment :
  • we have no rights to kill other humans
  • innocent people can be killed because of unfair sentences
  • even criminals deserve a second chance
  • Advantages of capital punishment :
  • it prevents major crimes
  • it restores equilibrium of justice
  • it lessens expenses on maintenance of prisoners

How to structure my answer?

Surely, there are a lot of ways to organise this essay. But here is one possible way of structuring the answer to produce a band 9 essay :

Introduction : rephrase the topic and state your opinion.

Body paragraphs :

  • paragraph 1: disadvantages of death penalty
  • paragraph 2: advantages of death penalty

Conclusion : sum up the ideas from body paragraphs and briefly give your opinion.

Band 9 essay sample (death penalty)

Many people believe that death penalty is necessary to keep security system efficient in the society. While there are some negative aspects of capital punishment, I agree with the view that without it we will become more vulnerable to violence.

Death penalty can be considered unsuitable punishment for several reasons. The strongest argument is that we have no rights to kill other humans. Right to live is the basic right of any human being, and no one can infringe this right, irrespective of the person’s deeds. Moreover, innocent people can face wrongful execution. Such unfair sentences take away lives of innocent people and make other citizens lose faith in law and justice. And besides, sometimes criminals repent of their acts. In this case they should be given a second chance to improve themselves.

However, I believe that capital punishment is necessary in the society. Firstly, it is an effective deterrent of major crimes. The best method to prevent a person from committing crime is to show the consequences of his or her actions. For example, the government of Pakistan has controlled the rate of terrorism by enforcing death penalties for the members of terrorist organisations. Secondly, the governments spend large sums of national budget on maintenance of prisoners. Instead, this money can be used for the development of the society and welfare of the people.

To sum up, although capital punishment has some disadvantages, I think that it proves to be the best way of controlling criminals, lessening governmental expenses and preventing other people from doing crimes.

(257 words)

Useful vocabulary

capital punishment = death penalty

to commit a crime - to do a crime

deterrent of major crimes - something that prevents big crimes

to face wrongful execution - to be mistaken for a criminal and killed for that

to infringe someone’s right - restrict someone’s right, hurt someone’s interests

innocent people - people who are not guilty or responsible for crimes

to repent of something - to feel sorry for something

right to live is basic right of any human being

unfair sentence - not fair judgement

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Ielts writing task 2 sample 41 - by punishing murderers with the death penalty, society is also guilt of committing murder, ielts writing task 2/ ielts essay:, by punishing murderers with the death penalty, society is also guilty of committing murder. therefore, life in prison is a better punishment for murderers..

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crime and punishment essay 250 words

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Crime and Punishment Essay | Essay on Crime and Punishment for Students and Children in English

February 13, 2024 by Prasanna

Crime and Punishment Essay:  One of the most popular works by the author Dostoevsky is the novel Crime, and Punishment covers a major theory about the extra-ordinary man. In this novel, the main role is played by Raskolnikov, who sets extraordinary justifications for his sins that he has committed. Raskolnikov is shown to have both physical and psychological illnesses, with the reason behind it being poverty and no food availability. The sole belief of Raskolnikov was that he must be arbitrated as an exception from the laws that are forced on all humans by ordinary men. The main reason that drove him to commit the murder of Alyona or the moneylender is his poorness.

You can also find more  Essay Writing  articles on events, persons, sports, technology and many more.

Long and Short Essays on Crime and Punishment for Students and Kids in English

We provide students with essay samples on a long essay of 500 words and a short essay of 150 words on the topic Crime and Punishment for reference.

Long Essay on Crime and Punishment 500 Words in English

Long Essay on Crime and Punishment is usually given to classes 7, 8, 9, and 10.

Fyodor Dostoyevsky, a Russian writer who is considered one of the most incredible psychologists in the literature across the world. He has always used his talents in the literature to discover the vague and complex parts of human nature.

His novels are known to be created with an intense relation towards the human soul that is stated to be mysterious. His novels are an excellent psychological analysis example of the darkest thoughts, ideas, and problems. The widely popular Crime and Punishment showcases a poor ex-student Raskolnikov involved in the premeditated murder of an old and rich pawnbroker. He justified his actions by claiming it was for the betterment and universal justice.

Although, despite his extremely high goals, Raskolnikov underwent mental and conscience torment for a huge amount of time before he finally decided to own up to his crimes and confess. One of the primary themes of the entire novel Crime and Punishment is confession since this is the most vital part of the novel that showcases some differences in the physical and mental state of Raskolnikov. Besides, it was not a new addition to the literature genre. It began in the early periods, such as 400 A.D by the St. Augustine confessions. The genres similar to that of this novel gained immense popularity during the nineteenth century in Europe. This genre has been used by most of the popular writers like Jean-Jacques in the eighteenth century.

Strangely enough, Dostoyevsky continuously mentioned the confessions of Rousseau, debating on the genre clarification of the latter. In the old times. The confessional genre has been known as a type of narrative where the confessor narrates the secret crimes committed in the past or scene and the rebirth and reform that led to depression and compensation through constant suffering. Moreover, at the beginning of the novel, Raskolnikov decided to murder Alyona Ivanova, a money lender. He solely believed moneylenders to be cruel and, thus, thought to have committed a heroic deed. He also thought that murdering a moneylender will help him to gain forgiveness for his forty sins.

The ruthless punishment that is described in the novel is the guilt that is felt by Raskolnikov after the committed sin. However, his sensibilities are recognized throughout the novel. Besides, he stresses about the sins of nineteenth-century Russia along with his sins. In this entire novel, Raskolnikov’s growth has been praised, especially his ability to own his sins and wrong beliefs. In the ending part of the novel, Raskolnikov decides to confess and accept his sins. He did not receive any brutal punishment for the crime committed. However, his guilt was considered the cruelest punishment or torment one can go through.

Raskolnikov finally becomes successful at obtaining his faith through a tough challenge and struggle from his pessimism, despair, nihilism, and disbelief. The love and the ability to accept his wrongdoing showcases the rewards he obtained for his acceptance and virtue.

Short Essay on Crime and Punishment 150 Words in English

Short Essay on Crime and Punishment is usually given to classes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6.

It is tough to categorize the protagonist of the story solely as a hero since he seems the opposite of that at the beginning of the novel. Since he is responsible for committing a premeditated murder all for the sake of money and his poorness.

He then justified his wrongdoings or the murder of the pawnbroker as social justice and for the greater good. However, he suffers from this guilt for years, which is tormenting for him. Besides, he also stresses his family’s well-being, sins, and the country that he resided in since he thinks thoroughly about the moral issues.

However, Raskolnikov eventually turns into a brave person, which is displayed through his actions at the ending of the novel. He starts accepting his sins and confesses it to the police. He chooses to compensate for the wrongs or sins that he has committed in the past.

10 Lines on Crime and Punishment in English

  • The author, Dostoevsky, decided to give up on a military career.
  • The psychological insight offered by his novel was acknowledged globally.
  • In 1894, on suspicion of revolutionary activities, Dostoevsky was arrested, which inspired him to raise some specific questions in the novel Crime and Punishment.
  • Raskolnikov represented a split personality that established itself as intellectual, hypersensitive, or axe-swinging maniac.
  • Raskolnikov can be both a hero and generous, but he becomes the prey of his philosophy.
  • The sentence given to Raskolnikov was considered to be light.
  • The novel Crime and Punishment received instant popularity along with mixed reviews.
  • There are over 25 movies on the novel Crime and Punishment.
  • The narrative of Crime and Punishment was switched to a third-person later; originally, it was supposed to be confessional and first-person.
  • Money was mutual between the protagonist Raskolnikov and the author since the author had a serious gambling addiction.

FAQ’s on Crime and Punishment Essay

Question 1. Who did Raskolnikov decided to kill in the novel Crime and Punishment?

Answer:  Raskolnikov committed a premeditated murder of the pawnbroker Alyona.

Question 2. Why did Raskolnikov decide to murder the moneylender?

Answer:  There are several reasons which led Raskolnikov to murder the moneylender. One of which is due to the requirement of money.

Question 3. What is the cruel punishment described in the novel?

Answer:  Guilt is considered the cruelest punishment faced by the protagonist in the entire novel.

Question 4. What is the primary theme of Crime and Punishment?

Answer:  Crime and punishment have one primary theme, which is alienation. The pride of the protagonist alienates him from the entire society.

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Capital Punishment Essay for Students in English: 250 and 350 Words Samples

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  • Updated on  
  • Mar 12, 2024

Capital Punishment Essay

Capital Punishment Essay: Capital punishment refers to sentencing a criminal with the death penalty after due process of law. This form of punishment can be traced back to the ancient Greek of the 7th century BC, which operated under the ‘Laws of Draco’. In addition to the Greeks, Romans also sanctioned citizens to the death penalty for murder, rape, arson, and treason. 

crime and punishment essay 250 words

Likewise, present-day India awards the death penalty for heinous crimes against mankind such as murder, criminal conspiracy, dacoity with murder, encouraging mutiny, and waging war against the central government. However, as we have evolved as humans, courts resort to this extreme form of punishment in rarest of the rare cases. 

Also Read: Essay on Human Rights: Samples in 500 and 1500

Capital Punishment Essay in 250 Words

Capital punishment or the death penalty is the state-sanctioned execution of a person as punishment for a crime. It is usually the most severe punishment a judicial system can impose on offenders. It is usually reserved for the most serious crimes like rape and murder. 

Since time immemorial, mankind has opted for different methods of capital punishment. From hanging, beheading, and firing squads to burning, stoning, and poisoning humans have used every possible way to execute offenders. Methods can vary but all these have one thing in common i.e. inhumanity.  

Capital punishment, in all its forms, is considered barbaric. It is seen as cruel, savage, and a form of revenge, reminiscent of a bygone era where understanding and respect for human life were absent. Some argue that these methods even involve physical torture.

While some believe the death penalty deters crime, studies have shown no significant correlation between its use and a decrease in violent crimes. In simpler terms, the threat of execution does not necessarily prevent people from committing serious offences. Therefore, it becomes crucial to consider whether capital punishment truly serves any purpose in our modern world. 

Owing to the controversial characteristics of this punishment option, the ‘Abolition of the Death Penalty’ has become one of the most prominent discussions in the United Nations. Besides, Human Rights activists and organisations also raise their voices against capital punishment. With all the ongoing debate, there is optimism that this inhuman practice might be done away with in the future. 

Also Read: World Day for International Justice

Essay on Capital Punishment in 350 Words

Capital punishment or the death penalty has been a topic of contention in India. While the Supreme Court of India has reserved the death penalty for the rarest of rare cases, the penal process evokes a debate for and against this form of punishment. 

One of the primary arguments in favour of capital punishment is deterrence i.e. fear of severe forms of the death penalty will reduce crimes. Supporters of this penal process are of the view that the threat of capital punishment prevents a potential offender from committing heinous crimes like murder, rape, war against the government, and abetment to mutiny. Also, they propound that the assertion of severe punishments upholds the safety and security of people as the state has the responsibility to maintain social order and safeguard its people. 

However, people against capital punishment argue that the death penalty is inept in rehabilitating prisoners, which is the basic aim of any legal penal option. They also propose that punishment by execution does not deter people from committing crimes as individualist punishment overlooks broader social failures. Also, execution by barbaric measures shifts the responsibility of the state and peer groups from addressing the root causes of crime to individual punishment. 

Another reason for concern regarding capital punishment is the risk of executing innocent individuals due to flaws in the justice system. The possibility of wrongful convictions highlights the serious consequences of irreparable harm of taking a person’s life. This irreversible consequence outlines the significance of strict legal procedures and safety measures to prevent miscarriage of justice. 

Thus, the debate over capital punishment in India is a complex one, encompassing moral, legal, and societal considerations. While proponents argue for its necessity in ensuring justice and deterring crime, opponents raise valid concerns regarding its effectiveness, morality, and potential for miscarriages of justice. As the legal landscape continues to evolve, it is essential to critically examine these arguments and consider the broader implications of capital punishment on society and the individuals it affects.

It is time to #StopExecutions and #AbolishTheDeathPenalty – Join us now at https://t.co/LeukqEMJWA @RepEspaillat @EspaillatNY #LisaMontgomery #CoreyJohnson #DustinHiggs pic.twitter.com/wzTuklnrRx — Death Penalty Action (@DeathPenaltyAct) January 12, 2021

Ans: Yes. The legal system in India can grant capital punishment in case of murder, criminal conspiracy, abetment to mutiny, dacoity with murder, and waging war against the Union Government.

Ans: Start the essay on capital punishment by defining this penal process. Thereafter, cite arguments in favour and against the death penalty. Also, you can mention how the government and society benefit and lose through this ultimate yet barbaric form of justice.

Ans: Capital punishment refers to sentencing a criminal with the death penalty after due process of law. 

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Ankita Singh

Ankita is a history enthusiast with a few years of experience in academic writing. Her love for literature and history helps her curate engaging and informative content for education blog. When not writing, she finds peace in analysing historical and political anectodes.

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Crime is a violent act with an aim of hurting other individual. The aim of a crime is to destabilize the peace and tranquillity of the society. There are various aspects that make up a crime. They include:

  • The nature of the crime
  • The motive of the crime
  • Whether the culprit was caught or not
  • The punishment
  • The reason of the punishment
  • The effectiveness of the punishment

The above aspects are vital in understanding crime and punishment. Crime has origin like any other thing in existence. There are theories that have been brought up to understand crime with an aim of stopping it. These criminals behaviour are known to have been triggered by something to do these acts of violence. There are some French and Italian thinkers who have come up with various schools of thought to understand crime and the motives behind them. These thinkers have been able to understand the minds of criminals. Understanding the minds of the criminals can lead to early prevention of crime (Tonry, 2000).

The punishment for the crimes is something that has evolved through the ages. The punishment was meant to change the behaviour of the perpetrator and was to be fitting to the crime. This is something that initially brought up a lot of problems since the perpetrators came out not reformed. It is something that has changed over the ages as various reformers have come up to change the status quo.  These reformers made a significant difference and the change was positive. The main reason for punishment is being achieved now. This is now up for debate since change comes from an individual choice to change their habit and behaviour ( Dostoevsky, 2004).

Tonry H. Michael . (2000). The Handbook of Crime & Punishment . Foster City, CA: Oxford University press.

Dostoevsky F. (2004). Crime and Punishment Enriched Classics . Kentucky: Simon and Schuster.

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Crime and Punishment Vocabulary with Pronunciation

The most common crime and punishment vocabulary with audios for pronunciation. This word list covers crimes, criminals, punishment, court proceedings and other useful words to write and talk about the topic of crime. Practice the words with the vocabulary exercise at the bottom of the page.

Types of Crime: Major & Minor Crime Vocabulary

These crimes are divided into crimes which are considered serious and those that are not.

Major Crimes

The list of crimes below are all nouns.

  • abduction = taking someone against their will (kidnapping)
  • arson = setting fire to a property
  • assault = a physical attack
  • burglary = illegal entry to a building with an intent to commit a crime
  • child abuse = maltreatment of a child
  • drug trafficking = importing illegal drugs
  • false imprisonment = imprisoning a person against their will and without legal authority
  • fraud = deception for personal or financial gain
  • hacking = unauthorised access to data in a computer system
  • hijacking = illegally getting control of an aircraft or vehicle
  • human trafficking = illegally transporting people, usually for slave labour or commercial sexual exploitation
  • premeditated murder = murder that is intentional (planned before hand)
  • unpremeditated murder – murder that is not intentional (not planned)
  • manslaughter – unintentional murder (synonym for unpremeditated murder)
  • attempted murder = planning to kill another person
  • patricide = killing one’s own father
  • genocide = systematic killing of a race or religious group
  • euthanasia = killing someone for their benefit
  • organised crime = crime by an organised gang or organisation
  • smuggling = illegal import or export
  • terrorism = unlawful violence or threat with political aims
  • white collar crime = financially motivated non-violent crime by a worker

Minor Crimes / Offences

  • pick pocketing = taking from another person’s pockets
  • shoplifting = taking products from a shop without paying for them
  • traffic offences =breaking the rules of the road and driving
  • drunk driving = driving whilst under the influence of alcohol
  • jay walking = crossing the road at an undesignated spot
  • running a red light = going through traffic lights when they are red
  • speeding = driving over the speed limit
  • vandalism = deliberate destruction or damage to a building

Vocabulary for Criminals

This list shows the person relating to the crime (the perpetrator of the crime).

  • crime = criminal
  • murder = murderer
  • theft = thief
  • trafficking = trafficker
  • hijacking = hijacker
  • terrorism = terrorist
  • smuggling = smuggler
  • shoplifting = shoplifter
  • vandalism = vandal
  • teenage criminal/ juvenile delinquent

Types of Punishment Vocabulary

  • the death penalty (capital punishment) = punishment of death
  • life in prison
  • a suspended sentence = delaying of a sentence
  • forfeiture = property is taken away (confiscated)
  • hospital order = to confine someone to hospital under arrest
  • a fine = to pay money as a punishment for an offence
  • house arrest = imprisoned in one’s own house rather than in prison
  • to suspend a license = withholding a person’s right to use their driving license for a period of time
  • to revoke a license = to take away someone’s driving license
  • community service = punishment by doing community work

Other Types of Punishment

This refers to punishment commonly used by schools and parents.

  • detention = to stay in school after hours for punishment
  • to give lines = punishment where a child must write the same sentence again and again
  • isolation = to be kept apart from others as a punishment
  • grounding = to be unable to go outside home as a punishment
  • scolding = an angry reprimand
  • corporal punishment = physical punishment from a teacher or headteacher at school

Court Language

  • judge = the person who controls the court proceedings
  • jury = a group of independent people who decide whether the defendant is guilty or not guilty
  • justice = fairness or court law
  • trial = legal proceedings to judge whether someone is guilty of a crime
  • court = the place where the trial is held
  • defendant = the accused person: the individual or group being accused in court of a crime
  • prosecutor = the lawyer against the accused person
  • defense = the lawyer protecting the accused person
  • witness = a person who sees an event happen
  • evidence = facts or information supporting the truth
  • proof = evidence supporting a claim
  • hearsay = rumour / unsubstantiated information
  • guilty = not innocent as judged by a court of law
  • innocent = found not guilty of a crime
  • to be found guilty = the court decided that the person did commit the crime
  • conviction / verdict = formal sentence of a court
  • circumstances of the crime = a condition or situation relating to a crime
  • extenuating circumstances = a condition that makes the crime or mistake less serious and more understandable
  • take into consideration = should be thought about carefully
  • circumstantial evidence = something that connects a person indirectly to the crime (for example, a finger print at a crime scene but no actual hard evidence or witness)
  • maximum / minimum sentence = highest penalty / lowest penalty
  • a harsh punishment = hard, strict penalty
  • penalty / punishment are synonyms but penalty is often used for both minor offences and major crimes.

Other Useful Crime & Punishment Vocabulary

  • crime is prevalent = there is a lot of crime
  • armed police = police who carry guns
  • to deter (n = deterrent) = to put someone off from doing something
  • discrimination = unjust treatment
  • to be soft on crime = not to have harsh or strict punishments
  • repeat offender = a person who has committed a crime or offence more than once
  • serial criminals = criminals who repeatedly commit the same crime
  • diminished responsibility = when someone is not in a state to be considered responsible for their own actions
  • rehabilitation = to restore someone through education or therapy
  • reintegrate back into society = help someone return into society
  • peer pressure = pressure from friends or colleagues
  • role models = people whose behaviour should be copied and respected
  • mimicking violent behaviour = to copy aggressive actions

Practice Exercises with Crime Vocabulary

Complete the sentences using one or more words either from the above lists or from other vocabulary relating to this topic. The sentence must be grammatically correct once you have added the right word(s).

  • The ………………. is the strongest deterrent against crime.
  • The number of ……………….. is on the rise due to the impact of peer pressure at school and violent movies shown on TV. Teenagers are prone to ……………. aggressive behaviour.
  • All people accused of a crime should be given a fair ……………. in a ………… of law.
  • People who are convicted a murder from only ………………………. evidence should not receive the death penalty.
  • The motives of a crime should always be taken into consideration. For example. there is a significant difference in the character of a person who commits ……………… murder and one who commits accidental murder.
  • A ………….. sentence is more humane than capital punishment.
  • Punishment should be the last resort. Instead criminals should be  …………………….
  • People who commit ……….. crimes, such as traffic offences, should have their ……………….. revoked.
  • Famous people, such as movie stars, should set a good ………… and ensure that they are good …………….. for young people to follow.
  • …………… and the right to a fair ……………. should be the right of all citizens.
  • Parents who inflict ……………… punishment on their children are showing children that …………….. is an acceptable way to deal with problems.
  • Prison does not rehabilitate criminals, it only …………. them from society.   …………….. service and rehabilitation is a better way to avoid criminals becoming ………………….
  • death penalty (the answer can’t be “capital punishment” because it doesn’t use the article “the”)
  • juvenile delinquents / mimic
  • trial / court
  • circumstantial
  • premeditated
  • rehabilitated
  • minor / licenses
  • example / role models
  • Justice / trial
  • corporal / violence
  • removes / Community / repeat offenders

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Reporing on crimes every day on TV only encourages criminals to copy. School schootingns have been very seldom reported until recently and they encourage more crimes than there used to be.COPYING is a serious problem. The press should be more subtle in reporting crimes.

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What is the difference between Convict and Sentence?

To convict is about finding someone guilty. To sentence is about passing the punishment.

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hi Liz, in this portion of vocabulary you can also add words like: felon-felony, sadist, turncoat, traitor, heinous crime, renegade

also in educational vocabulary words like; freshers/freshman – 1st year college student sophomore – 2nd year college student veteran – final year student

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Hi Liz, why there is no explanation for ‘human trafficking’ in the above given list?? Thank you so much for all your wonderful works. Keep going..

Thanks for letting me know – I just added it 🙂

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Hii lizz.. What does vanadlism means ??

Sry vandalism

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It denotes destruction of property (usually public property).

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It is really interesting. Very useful for students.

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Hi Liz, Please heck the meanings of drunk driving and jay walking. Drunk driving is driving under the influence of drinks. But the meaning does not say that. Also, jay walking. It should be walking at an undesignated spot and not designated spot.

Thanks for spotting my typos. They have been corrected.

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Your problem is relating to English, not IELTS. If your English language is weak, find an English language website to help you: https://ieltsliz.com/useful-websites-and-resources-for-ielts/

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Hi ! Can I paraphrase the words “teenage crime” with “juvenile delinquency” ? Thank you in advance!

Sure. It’s not 100% the same but close enough depending on the essay question.

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Good afternoon, dear Liz! I’ve got a question. Why is it written “the motives of a crime should always be TAKING into consideration…” in the exercising (sent. 5). I can’t make heads or tails of it) Explain it to me, please!

Well spotted! It’s a typo. I don’t have time to do proof reading. Sorry for any confusion.

Thank you a lot!!!! I appreciate your help!

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https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-speaking-free-lessons-essential-tips/

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Thanks for your support 🙂

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You must ask the requirements of the scholarship. Each one is different. All the best Liz

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I have already gone through and listened the audio too. I know many words but giving the meaning for it is too great! I have learnt a lot from those vocabs!

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Dear teacher, I’d like to ask some questions that make me brainstorm. What is the difference between ” traffic warden” and ” traffic police”? Could you explain it to me, please? Thanks a million!

A traffic warden is a uniformed official working with parking offences – not part of the police. The traffic police are police who work with traffic offences, traffic accidents and any crime involving traffic. All the best Liz

Thank You very much. So, it’s not the same traffic warden and traffic police. Best Regards, Romeo.

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Hi , Liz I am a new student for ielts preparation I do have only basic English I have started an ielts course 2 weeks ago but it’s not enough to emprove my English for university I have relised that your methods to explain vocabulary is fantastic And easy I would like to ask you PLZ if I can contact you private about teaching me Thank u in advance and sorry for any mistake that I committed

I wish I had the time but unfortunately, I don’t have time for private lessons this year. There are quite a lot of websites with free English grammar and vocabulary. See my useful websites page in the IELTS Extra section. I’m glad you’re thinking about your level of English – it is critical for success in IELTS. All the best Liz

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you are a wonderful teacher , really ,thank you a lot from Iraq. how could i use these vocabs in the essay writing or speaking section ?

You can use these words for both speaking and writing. All the best Liz

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Criminals got lots of choices here Liz. I love all your lectures. Ta!

Yes, it was weird writing such a long list of crimes and criminals 🙂

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Utilitarianists’ Ideology in “Crime and Punishment” by Fyodor Dostoyevsky Research Paper

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A great Russian writer and thinker Dostoevsky illuminates the impact of distorted utilitarianists’ ideology on a simple Russian student in his novel Crime and Punishment . Implementing his own views concerning the progress and happiness, the author proves the inconsistency of the misinterpreted and not successfully adapted Western European conception, developing the themes of suffering and universal values.

The main character of the novel Crime and Punishment by Dostoyevsky was influenced by the ideas of West European utilitarianism, based on the theories of correct actions and values. “New, “strange, unfinished ideas’ ‘ of Western origin take a hold in his mind” (Hudspith 104). Raskolnikov tried to evaluate his every decision mathematically, considering the worth of its possible impacts, attempting to measure even the things, which can not be measured. “He draws up his theory to the Napoleonic superman, permitted to step across conventional moral boundaries in pursuit of glory, while the ordinary masses are compelled to live within the restrictions of these boundaries” (Hudspith 104). Regarding himself a superman, Rodion thought that his unique intellectual abilities allowed him to break not only the moral rules, but the society laws as well. It was characteristic of the utilitarian ideology, according to which “Mankind… obtains a greater sum of happiness when each pursues his own” (West 213). Still, Raskolnikov’s decisions can not be regarded the consequences of the utilitarian influence, they rather reflect the misrepresented propositions of European theory in the consciousness of a haughty Russian man. The main character misinterpreted the main points due to his personal views and adapted them to his intentions so as to find in them support and theoretical basis for his reasoning. “Raskolnikov’s scheme to rebuild Petesburg, based on the same principles of utilitarianism and superior will that underlie the crime, should have buttressed his conviction that the murder is justifiable” (Peace 46). His reasoning, though spoken mostly to himself, was not sincere, the whole city improvement was not his main goal. Being isolated and discriminated by the society, Rodion could not think of making it happier, this idea could not occur to him, this was only a plausible pretext for committing the crimes. “He committed his crime not to help them, but to tower above them” (Hudspith 104). Thus, Raskolnikov’s mathematical evaluation of the moral dilemma can not be regarded empirical implementation of the ideas of European utilitarianism, being misinterpreted at the discretion of an arrogant young man, claiming to have extraordinary abilities and the right to rule the destinies.

Describing the consequences to which the young man’s passion for the utilitarian philosophical theories led, Dostoyevsky opposed his conception of the human happiness to that accepted by European philosophers. “The whole meaning of progress, Dostoyevsky had written as early as 1861, comes down to ‘self-enlightenment in the name of love of one another’” (Scanlan 191). While the European standards of progress emphasized the importance of the personal happiness of every individual, Dostoevsky proclaimed the priority of brotherhood and love for others. He regarded Chernyschevsky’s utilitarianism to be “an unintended distortion of such English utilitarianists as Bentham and Mill” (Hudspith 78). Chernyschevsky’s theories were rather popular among the young people, but Dostoevsky found misconceptions in them. For example, Chernyshevsky believed that “Good is superlative of utility, a very useful utility. Evil consists in what is not useful, and theoretical miscalculations have caused humanity more misery than the plague” ( Hudspith 188). But the reasons for Rodion’s plans failure are not only his miscalculations, his failure demonstrates inability of common people to calculate the universal values mathematically and the imperfection of the human nature in general. Proclaiming the importance of the spiritual side of life, Dostoevsky regarded the earthly period of life to be transitional and developing before the paradise of Christ. (Scanlan 191). Putting individual interests on the first place and realizing all wishes of the earthly life were out of the question for him. Dostoevsky’s attempt to criticize the misconceptions of the utilitarians’ ideology is reflected in the novel Crime and Punishment. Certainly, the main propositions of European theories are intentionally exaggerated and distorted demonstrating the possible impact of this distortion. The crime was followed by the punishment and the moral suffering of a man who was assured that he would manage to calculate everything mathematically. But such categories as psychic pain and remorse can not be measured or calculated. The plot of the novel is aimed to contrast the European standard of progress to its Russian unsuccessful implementation.

The theme of suffering, that runs the entire novel thorough, reflects Dostoevsky’s ideas of an ideal man opposed to the Napoleonic ideas of a superman. “He insisted that to make progress the individual must strive toward an ideal that is ‘opposed’ to his nature and which he must continually ‘negate’” (Scanlan 191). Every character of the novel goes his/her path of suffering. Every member of the Marmeladov’s family suffers much. Living in poverty Sonia was induced to go on the streets to support her family. Raskolnikov himself suffers from the feeling of remorse having committed the murders. At the beginning of the novel Rodion follows the postulates of utilitarianists’ ideology, trying to change this world for the better, having the false idea of his extraordinary abilities and his exceptionality. But the miserable condition of the main character at the end of the novel leads the readers to the conclusion that his choice was wrong notwithstanding his calculations and reasoning. Dostoevsky denies the right of the individuals that got a false idea of their superiority, to rule the destinies and neglect the interests of the minority whatever calculations they may be guided. Suffering of the main character was inevitable for the progress, according to Dostoevsky’s views. A person, ignoring the spiritual side of life, guided by the material profits only was sure to suffer a defeat. Not taking into consideration the moral values which are one of the compulsory propositions of the utilitarianists’ ideology, the main character suffers from his lack of education, which could help him to interpret the European conceptions and lack of self-efficiency, which resulted in the desire to tower above the society in which he was isolated.

Another theme that helped the author to implement most of his philosophical views was the theme of moral values. Though the universal values in their accustomed sense are denied during the characters’ conversations, the ending of the novel proves the failure of the life position deprived from spirituality. The main character is contradictory and it is noticeable that two sides of human nature or different ideologies are struggling inside of him. It is obvious, that the spiritual side was to win in Dostoevsky’s character. In some episodes it seems that Raskolnikov does not believe in his words himself. “One death and a hundred lives in exchange – it’s simple arithmetic!” (Dostoevsky 157). But the arithmetical calculations did not seem so simple to the main character as he said. He was misled by the wrong ideas, got carried away by the philosophy that seemed convenient to him at some moment and forgot about the importance of moral values. But this was not characteristic of Rodion, as he was kind and sensitive by nature, in several episodes he was able to empathize with others, though criticizing himself after calculating the worth of his actions, he did not realize his own motivation and it was only impulse that guided him.

He wants to help the girl that who has been seduced, but then pours scorn on the feebleness of the necessary “percentage” that must go to rack and ruin; he leaves some money at the Marmeladovs’, but scolds himself for a gesture that in economic terms is a useless drop in the ocean (Hudspith 105).

In other words, Dostoevsky’s main character suffers from the inner struggle of the distorted interpretation of the utilitarianists’ ideology and moral values which were cultivated to him by Russian culture.

The inner struggle in the soul of the main character represents the opposition of two doctrines. Intentionally distorting the main propositions of the utilitarianists’ ideology Dostoevsky demonstrates the inconsistency of the conception of progress as it floated around Western Europe in Russia due to differences in the people’s mentality and different historical ways of development.

Bibliography

Dostoyevsky, Fedor. Crime and Punishment. EasyRead Large. 2006: 512.

Hudspith, Sarah. Dostoyevsky and the idea of Russianness: A New perspective on Unity and Brotherhood. RoutledgeCurzon. 2004: 228.

Peace, Richard. Fyodor Dostoyevsky’s Crime and Punishment: A casebook. Oxford University Press. 2006: 198.

Scanlan, James Patrick. Dostoyevsky the Thinker. Cornell University press. 2002: 251.

West, Henry. The Blackwell Guide to Mill’s Utilitarianism . Blackwell Publishing. 2006: 275.

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IvyPanda. (2021, December 18). Utilitarianists’ Ideology in "Crime and Punishment" by Fyodor Dostoyevsky. https://ivypanda.com/essays/crime-and-punishment-by-fyodor-dostoyevsky/

"Utilitarianists’ Ideology in "Crime and Punishment" by Fyodor Dostoyevsky." IvyPanda , 18 Dec. 2021, ivypanda.com/essays/crime-and-punishment-by-fyodor-dostoyevsky/.

IvyPanda . (2021) 'Utilitarianists’ Ideology in "Crime and Punishment" by Fyodor Dostoyevsky'. 18 December.

IvyPanda . 2021. "Utilitarianists’ Ideology in "Crime and Punishment" by Fyodor Dostoyevsky." December 18, 2021. https://ivypanda.com/essays/crime-and-punishment-by-fyodor-dostoyevsky/.

1. IvyPanda . "Utilitarianists’ Ideology in "Crime and Punishment" by Fyodor Dostoyevsky." December 18, 2021. https://ivypanda.com/essays/crime-and-punishment-by-fyodor-dostoyevsky/.

IvyPanda . "Utilitarianists’ Ideology in "Crime and Punishment" by Fyodor Dostoyevsky." December 18, 2021. https://ivypanda.com/essays/crime-and-punishment-by-fyodor-dostoyevsky/.

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COMMENTS

  1. Essay on Crime And Punishment

    250 Words Essay on Crime And Punishment Understanding Crime and Punishment. Crime refers to acts that break the law. These are actions that society and law consider wrong. For example, stealing or hurting someone physically. Punishment, on the other hand, is what happens when someone commits a crime. It could be a fine, jail time, or community ...

  2. Many Offenders Commit More Crimes After Serving The First Punishment

    IELTS Writing Task 2 Topic: Many offenders commit more crimes after serving the first punishment. In IELTS Writing Task 2, students are asked to write a formal essay of at least 250 words, in 4-5 paragraphs based on the given writing task 2 essay topics. The task is similar for both Academic and General Training with regards to the type of ...

  3. IELTS Essay # 287

    IELTS Essay Topic: Some people believe that there should be a fixed punishment for each type of crime. Others, however, argue that the circumstances of an individual crime, and the motivation for committing it, should always be taken into account when deciding on the punishment.Discuss both of these two views and give your own opinion.Answer: Different kinds of atrocities happen all over the ...

  4. IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample 7

    Write at least 250 words. Model answer: Crime is an issue of increasing concern around the world, and more money than ever before is being spent on the detection and punishment of criminal activity. The reasons why people commit crime are countless, but drugs and alcohol, social problems and poverty play a major role.

  5. Crime and punishment IELTS model essay with vocabulary

    Although crime and punishment is a common topic in the IELTS exam, there, thankfully, is not too much vocabulary you need to know for it. Let's take a look at some of the high level vocabulary in this answer to kick start your learning. Deterrent. A deterrent is something that scares people away from doing something. Rehabilitation.

  6. An Essay on Crimes and Punishments

    An Essay on Crimes and Punishments. Cesare Bonesana di Beccaria (author) Voltaire (author) An extremely influential Enlightenment treatise on legal reform in which Beccaria advocates the ending of torture and the death penalty. The book also contains a lengthy commentary by Voltaire which is an indication of high highly French enlightened ...

  7. Crime and Punishment [IELTS Topics]

    Crime and Punishment IELTS Essay Topics. This topic is much more common in the writing exam than other parts because it requires the expression of complex ideas. As such, you will see many IELTS writing task 2 questions about crime and punishment. Common sub-topics include: young people and crime; capital punishment; reasons for criminal behaviour

  8. Essay 102

    Model Answer 1: Punishments are instrumental in the interest of retaining confidence in the rule of law. Many people believe that criminals ought to be subject to fixed punishments for each crime, while others opine that the circumstances of a particular crime and the motive behind it should be considered before punishing someone. In this case ...

  9. 100 Words Essay on Crime

    250 Words Essay on Crime Introduction. Crime, a pervasive aspect of society, is an act that violates a law and is punishable by the state. It disruptively breaches societal norms, creating a sense of insecurity and fear. This essay delves into the nature of crime, its causes, and the role of law enforcement. ...

  10. IELTS essay Crime and Punishment

    Crime and punishment are critical components of any society's legal and moral framework, reflecting how a community upholds justice and social order. This topic encompasses the various aspects of the criminal justice system, the ethics of punishment, and the effectiveness of different punitive measures. Understanding these elements is ...

  11. 50 Latest Crime IELTS Topics

    50 Latest Crime IELTS Topics. Get a band score and detailed report instantly. Check your IELTS essays right now! The graphs show crimes that took place in the city of Greenvale and arrests from 2010 to 2019. Summarise the information by selecting and report the main features, and make comparisons where relevant。.

  12. IELTS Cause Solution Essay Band 9 Model Answer

    IELTS Cause Solution Essay Band 9 Model Answer. The model answer below is for an IELTS cause and solution essay in writing task 2 on the topic of crime and punishment. Many offenders commit more crimes after serving their first punishment. Why is this happening, and what measures can be taken to tackle this problem?

  13. IELTS Writing band 9 sample: death penalty

    Surely, there are a lot of ways to organise this essay. But here is one possible way of structuring the answer to produce a band 9 essay: Introduction: rephrase the topic and state your opinion. Body paragraphs: paragraph 1: disadvantages of death penalty. paragraph 2: advantages of death penalty. Conclusion: sum up the ideas from body ...

  14. IELTS Writing Task 2/ Essay Topics with sample answer.

    Sample Answer 1: Crime is a serious problem across the globe and all countries are trying to deal with this pressing issue. A section of the society believe that prison sentences for a longer duration can help reduce the crime, whilst others disagree and argue that there are other better ways to solve this. This essay agrees with the argument ...

  15. IELTS Writing Task 2/ Essay Topics with sample answer.

    Punishment type and toughness are different according to the types of crime or action. The most serious crime, which is killing a person with previous planning, leads the murderer to the death penalty after making sure that he/she is the killer through clear proofs. This essay tackles and discusses two contrasting opinions.

  16. Crime and Punishment Essay

    Long Essay on Crime and Punishment 500 Words in English. Long Essay on Crime and Punishment is usually given to classes 7, 8, 9, and 10. Fyodor Dostoyevsky, a Russian writer who is considered one of the most incredible psychologists in the literature across the world. He has always used his talents in the literature to discover the vague and ...

  17. Capital Punishment Essay for Students in English: 250 and 350 Words

    Capital Punishment Essay in 250 Words. Capital punishment or the death penalty is the state-sanctioned execution of a person as punishment for a crime. It is usually the most severe punishment a judicial system can impose on offenders. It is usually reserved for the most serious crimes like rape and murder.

  18. Crime & Punishment Essay Titles

    Crime & Punishment Essay Questions for IELTS Writing Task 2. The crime rate nowadays is decreasing compared to the past due to advance technology which can prevent and solve crime. Do you agree or disagree? (Reported 2017, 2021 Academic Test) Many criminals commit further crimes as soon as they released from prison.

  19. Crime and Punishment, Essay Example

    Crime is a violent act with an aim of hurting other individual. The aim of a crime is to destabilize the peace and tranquillity of the society. There are various aspects that make up a crime. They include: The nature of the crime. The motive of the crime. Whether the culprit was caught or not. The punishment. The reason of the punishment.

  20. Crime and Punishment Vocabulary with Pronunciation

    The most common crime and punishment vocabulary with audios for pronunciation. This word list covers crimes, criminals, punishment, court proceedings and other useful words to write and talk about the topic of crime. Practice the words with the vocabulary exercise at the bottom of the page. Types of Crime: Major & Minor Crime Vocabulary

  21. "Crime and Punishment" by Fyodor Dostoyevsky

    The main character of the novel Crime and Punishment by Dostoyevsky was influenced by the ideas of West European utilitarianism, based on the theories of correct actions and values. "New, "strange, unfinished ideas' ' of Western origin take a hold in his mind" (Hudspith 104). Raskolnikov tried to evaluate his every decision ...

  22. Crime and Punishment Essays and Criticism

    PDF Cite. In Crime and Punishment, Fyodor Dostoyevsky created an unforgettable novel of haunting intensity. With its sustained focus on the emotions and thoughts of its young protagonist, Rodion ...