nounnounnoun

le voyou

thug

C'est une personne qui se comporte mal, qui aime provoquer des problèmes ou faire des bêtises, souvent dans la rue.

The French word "voyou" refers to a thug, hooligan, or delinquent—a person who behaves badly or breaks rules, often involved in petty crimes or rough behavior.

Meaning:

A "voyou" is someone who acts in a rowdy, aggressive, or unlawful way.
The term often implies a young person associated with street crime or disruptive conduct.
It can also describe troublemakers or bullies in informal language.

Synonyms and differences:

Voyou: Informal and slightly colloquial, often linked to youth crime or street troublemakers. Sometimes used affectionately or ironically among friends.
Bandit: More formal, referring to a criminal or outlaw, often with emphasis on more serious crimes.
Vandale: Focuses on someone who destroys property, not necessarily involved in theft or violence.
Délinquant: A general term for an offender or juvenile delinquent, neutral and used in legal contexts.
Caïd: Slang for a leader or big shot in the underworld or in a group of thugs; implies some authority.

So, "voyou" emphasizes rough or antisocial behavior, particularly in youth, often in urban or street contexts.