In legal terms, what is defined as an action toward committing a crime?

The term that is defined as an action toward committing a crime is "attempt." In legal contexts, an attempt occurs when an individual has the intention to commit a crime and takes a substantial step toward carrying it out, even if the crime is not ultimately completed. This concept recognizes that individuals should be held accountable for their intent and actions that demonstrate a clear move toward committing an offense.

The significance of an attempt lies in the legal principle that the mere intention to commit a crime is not enough; there must be an overt act that indicates the individual is working towards achieving that criminal objective. For example, if someone buys tools to break into a property but is caught before attempting to do so, they can still be charged with an attempt.

In contrast, conspiracy involves an agreement between two or more individuals to commit a crime, which underscores the collaborative aspect rather than the individual's direct action towards committing an offense. Initiation and preparation, while they may seem related, do not carry the same specific legal implications as "attempt." Thus, "attempt" best encapsulates the legal definition of an action toward the commission of a crime.