inchoate offense
A step toward the commission of another crime, the step in itself being serious enough to merit punishment.? The three inchoate offenses are attempt, conspiracy, and solicitation. The term is sometimes criticized (see quot. below).
¡ª Also termed anticipatory offense; inchoate crime; preliminary crime. [Cases: Conspiracy 23.1; Criminal Law 44. C.J.S. Conspiracy ¡ì¡ì 98, 100¨C103, 110; Criminal Law ¡ì¡ì 114¨C123.]
