intj
Common
crimes
krymz
Crimes (intj) means a mild exclamation of surprise, shock, or annoyance. Example: “Crimes, I nearly missed the bus!”
intj
1
A mild exclamation of surprise, shock, or annoyance.
"Crimes, I nearly missed the bus!"
"Crimes, is that the time already? I'm going to be late for work!"
"Crimes! You gave me such a fright."
How to use crimes
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAn old-fashioned, mild exclamation, similar to "crikey."
When to use it
Informal and rather dated.
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_____, I nearly missed the bus!
Etymology
A euphemistic softening of "Christ," similar to "crikey" and "cripes."
Related words
Rhymes for crimes
See all rhymes for crimes →Frequently asked questions
What does “crimes” mean?
The word “crimes” means a mild exclamation of surprise, shock, or annoyance. In plain terms, an old-fashioned, mild exclamation, similar to "crikey.".
How do you pronounce “crimes”?
“Crimes” is pronounced krymz (/kɹaɪmz/ in IPA).
How do you use “crimes” in a sentence?
Here is “crimes” used in a sentence: “Crimes, I nearly missed the bus!”
What part of speech is “crimes”?
“Crimes” is an intj.
Is “crimes” a common word?
“Crimes” is a fairly common word in modern English.
What does 'crimes!' mean as an exclamation?
As an interjection, 'crimes!' is a mild cry of surprise, shock, or annoyance, much like 'crikey!' or 'good grief!' It expresses a quick emotional reaction rather than referring to actual wrongdoing. It is a softened, inoffensive exclamation, the kind of thing someone might blurt out when startled or exasperated.
Is 'crimes' as an exclamation formal or informal?
It is thoroughly informal and conversational, belonging to casual speech rather than writing. Like other mild exclamations, it suits everyday, light-hearted situations and would look out of place in formal or professional contexts. It carries no offence, which is part of why people reach for it instead of stronger language.
What can I say instead of 'crimes!'?
Plenty of mild exclamations do the same job, such as 'crikey,' 'blimey,' 'good grief,' 'gosh,' 'yikes,' or 'goodness me.' All express surprise, shock, or mild frustration without being rude, so you can swap in whichever fits the tone and the region you are speaking in.
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