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Definition of decriminalization
decriminalization
/diːˌkrɪm.ɪ.nəl.aɪˈzeɪ.ʃən/
(UK: decriminalisation)
de · crim · i · nal · i · za · tion
Plural:decriminalizations
decriminalization Lexical Profile
CEFR
C1
Grade
11
Tier
2
Usage
Top 10k
Syllables
7
• noun
1
The legislative action or process of ceasing to treat an activity or behavior as a criminal offense subject to prosecution, though it may remain regulated or subject to civil penalties.
Example
"Advocates argued that the decriminalization of minor offenses would significantly reduce overcrowding in local courts and prisons."
Word Nuance & Usage
'Decriminalization' is often confused with 'legalization'; while legalization completely removes all legal prohibitions against an act, decriminalization removes criminal prosecution and imprisonment but may still leave the act subject to civil fines or administrative penalties.
• Rhymes for decriminalization
• Nearby Words
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.
180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Decriminalization. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/decriminalization