Capital offense is a serious crime that is punishable by death penalty in some countries. Though this term is widely used, there are other words that can convey the same meaning, such as capital crime, death penalty offense, death penalty crime, and capital felony. These synonyms define the same act, which is considered heinous acts such as murder, treason, espionage, kidnapping, drug trafficking, and aggravated rape. These crimes are considered the most severe in the legal system, and the punishment applies to those found guilty of the offenses. Though the use of capital punishment is controversial, it aims to deter similar acts from being committed in the future.