Criminally

In a manner that involves the commission of a crime, or in a way that is deserving of severe condemnation and punishment due to a serious violation of laws or moral codes. It implies actions that are illegal, unethical, or reprehensible to a significant degree. It may also refer to actions that are careless or reckless to a dangerous extent, leading to harm or damage. The term highlights the culpability and accountability associated with the actions. The severity of 'criminally' differentiates it from general wrongdoing, indicating a level of transgression that warrants legal or social consequences. It often suggests deliberate intent or gross negligence contributing to the violation.

Criminally meaning with examples

• The corporation was found to have criminally neglected safety protocols, leading to a major industrial accident. Their failure to provide proper training and maintenance placed their workers at risk. The resulting casualties led to outrage and severe legal repercussions, highlighting the company's responsibility for the tragic consequences of their negligence, and resulting in the sentencing of some members of the board.
• After the scandal, the executive was criminally prosecuted for insider trading, a blatant breach of financial regulations and trust. His actions, fueled by greed, deprived other investors of a fair playing field. The evidence clearly indicated the deliberate use of confidential information for personal enrichment, which eventually resulted in a prison sentence for violating securities laws and regulations.
• The state’s water supply was criminally polluted by an irresponsible and reckless business that dumped toxic waste. The resulting environmental disaster poisoned local ecosystems and caused significant harm to public health. Investigations revealed that the company knew the dangers yet chose to ignore the environmental consequences of their actions and was eventually found guilty of a variety of environmental crimes.
• The lawyer, faced with mounting debt and a gambling addiction, acted criminally by embezzling funds from her clients’ trusts. This unethical act showed a shocking disregard for her professional and moral obligations. The consequences of her actions were devastating, shattering trust and leading to a lengthy prison sentence and the end of her legal career for this serious breach of ethical guidelines.