crime doesn't pay
In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.
Meaning · English
If you commit a crime you will most likely be punished for it.
Where it’s used:
Used
American English
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “crime doesn't pay” mean?
If you commit a crime you will most likely be punished for it.
Is “crime doesn't pay” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.