# infraction

/ˌɪnˈfɹækʃən/ (US) · /ɪnfɹˈækʃən/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/infraction
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

a small crime or a rule that someone has broken. It is usually a less serious problem than a major crime.

For teachers: a violation of a law, rule, or regulation, typically one that is minor in nature.

## Examples

- The driver received a fine for a minor traffic infraction.
- The school principal warned the student that repeated infractions of the dress code would result in a suspension.
- While the individual acts were minor infractions of the local ordinances, the cumulative effect of such behavior across the neighborhood led to a formal investigation by the city council.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.