Final answer:
A behavior that violates official law and is punishable through formal sanctions is known as a crime, which can be categorized as a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the severity of the offense.
Step-by-step explanation:
A behavior that violates official law and is punishable through formal sanctions is known more formally as a crime. Crimes can range from minor offenses called misdemeanors to more serious offenses called felonies. Misdemeanors typically carry lighter penalties, such as fines or community service, while felonies can result in imprisonment or even the death penalty.
Learn more about Definition of crime and its categories