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Meaning of broken windows theory | Babel Free

Noun CEFR C1

Definitions

A criminological theory stating that signs of urban decay (e.g. broken windows, graffiti, loitering) signal that an area is not monitored, encouraging more destructive criminal behavior.

Examples

“Clark disliked the general state of unshavenness, partly for aesthetic reasons and partly because he was a believer in the broken-windows theory of urban-crime management, the way the appearance of dereliction can pave the way for more serious crimes.”

CEFR level

C1
Advanced
This word is part of the CEFR C1 vocabulary — advanced level.
See all C1 English words →

See also

broken-down broken-down valise broken-heart syndrome broken-heartedness broken, busted, screwed Brokenborough

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