Vigilante

usgb/ˌvɪdʒɪˈlænti/Volume
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Extra-legal ActivityPlay
Vigilante relates to actions taken outside legal boundaries, often due to a lack of trust in law enforcement. SlideThe townspeople formed a vigilante group to handle the crime wave.
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Negative ConnotationPlay
Although trying to deliver justice, 'vigilante' often has a negative connotation suggesting recklessness or illegality. SlideThe man's vigilante efforts to catch the vandal landed him in trouble with the law.
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Pop Culture HeroPlay
In films and comics, a vigilante often has a heroic image, fighting crime when institutions fail. SlideThe character dressed as a bat is a vigilante fighting against the corruption in his city.