crime wave
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: A sudden, significant, and usually temporary increase in the number of criminal activities occurring in a particular area or society over a short period.
Usage
The term "crime wave" is used to describe a noticeable surge in criminal incidents that captures public and media attention. It is typically applied to a specific geographic location, such as a city or neighborhood, and implies a pattern or trend rather than isolated events. It often carries connotations of public concern and demands for a response from authorities.
Examples
- The city experienced a crime wave last summer, with burglaries increasing by over 40%.
- The police chief held a press conference to address the recent crime wave of car thefts.
- Many residents blamed the economic downturn for the crime wave sweeping through the town.
- The newspaper's front-page story about the crime wave caused widespread alarm.
Advanced Usage
- "to be in the grip of a crime wave": To be experiencing a severe and ongoing surge in crime.
- The capital was in the grip of a violent crime wave.
- "to spark/trigger a crime wave": To cause a sudden increase in crime.
- The factory closures are feared to spark a new crime wave.
Variants and Related Words
- Crime spike: A very sharp, often shorter-term increase. This term is sometimes used interchangeably with "crime wave," though a "spike" may suggest an even more abrupt rise.
- Surge in crime: A more general phrase meaning a rapid increase in criminal activity.
- Epidemic of crime: A metaphorical term emphasizing the widespread and contagious nature of the increase.
Synonyms
- Surge in crime
- Upsurge in crime
- Rash of crime
- Outbreak of crime
Antonyms
- Crime drop
- Crime reduction
- Decline in crime
- Lull in crime
Related Idioms and Phrases
- A wave of [specific crime]: A common construction to specify the type of crime increasing.
- The neighborhood is dealing with a wave of vandalism.
- To ride the crime wave: (Journalistic) To report extensively on or be affected by a period of high crime.
- The local news channel has been riding the crime wave for ratings.