colposo

negligent, culpable

adjective kohl-POH-zoh Rare

Origin: From colpa (fault, guilt), from Latin culpa.

Usage Note

Colposo is a legal term contrasted with doloso (intentional). Omicidio colposo is manslaughter (unintentional killing), while omicidio doloso is murder. Outside legal contexts it is rare; everyday Italian uses negligente or in colpa for 'guilty/at fault.' The distinction mirrors the common-law difference between negligence and intent.

Examples

"Fu condannato per omicidio colposo."

Natural Translation

He was convicted of manslaughter.

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