What is the difference between a "sayyi'ah" (evil deed) and a "khaṭī'ah" (sin of error), and what is the difference between a "dhunb" (offense) and an "ithm" (transgression)?

A Sayyi'ah (evil deed) is that which harms a person in this world or the Hereafter. As for a Khaṭī'ah (sin), it originates from error and can be either intentional or unintentional.

The meanings of Khaṭī'ah and Sayyi'ah are similar, but Khaṭī'ah often refers to something not primarily intended, whereas Sayyi'ah is used for something intentionally sought.

As for Dhamb (offense), its original meaning is to grasp the tail (dhanab) of something, and it is used for any action whose consequences are dire. Ithm (transgression) is a name for actions that delay one from reward.

Ithm and Dhamb may sometimes convey the same meaning, or Dhamb may refer to the act of disobedience, and Ithm to what results from it.