infraction
UK: ɪnˈfrækʃən | US: ɪnˈfrækʃən
n. a violation or breach of a law, rule, or agreement
The word "infraction" originates from Latin infractionem (a breaking), derived from infringere ("to break into"). The morpheme in- negates or intensifies, while fract (from Latin fractus, past participle of frangere "to break") signifies a break. Over time, it evolved in Middle French as infraction before entering English, retaining its core meaning of "breaking a rule." The suffix -ion nominalizes the action, solidifying its modern legal connotation.
The driver received a ticket for a minor traffic infraction.
Repeated infractions of company policy may lead to termination.
The judge dismissed the case due to the trivial nature of the infraction.
Environmental infractions can result in hefty fines.
He was unaware his parking job constituted an infraction.