countable a crime or illegal activity for which there is a punishmenta traffic/drug/sex offense
first/second etc. offense: The usual fine is $15 to $100 for a first offense.
minor offense: Four people were arrested on minor offenses.
criminal offense: Killing these animals has been made a criminal offense.
capital offense (=a crime for which someone can be killed): They argued that since the victim was an officer, the criminal should be charged with a capital offense.
commit an offense: He has committed a very serious offense.
charge someone with an offense: The new ruling only applies to suspects who have been charged with an offense.
convict someone of an offense: Walker was convicted of a similar offense in 1987.