Here's the difference between decriminalization and legalization.

Marijuana, for example, is legal in Colorado. Theo Stroomer/Getty Images

Just because marijuana has been decriminalized in a particular place doesn't mean that individuals caught in possession of the drug won't face legal penalties. There's actually a significant difference between decriminalization of weed and full legalization.

Essentially, "decriminalization" means that the legal consequences for possession of small amounts of pot are much less severe than they used to be. According to the Marijuana Project Policy, someone caught with a small amount of marijuana won't face prosecution, jail time, or a receive a criminal record. However, they may be required to pay a fine and are generally considered to have committed a civil offense or minor misdemeanor, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.

Being discovered with a small amount of marijuana in states that have decriminalized the substance can be compared to receiving a speeding ticket – you won't got to jail, but you're still breaking the law. In contrast, the legalization of recreational marijuana means that adults can legally use, possess, and even grow their own marijuana for personal use.