Synonyms for

Burglary

Verb / ˈbɜ:glɜ:i: / Another word for burglary — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Burglary is the act of illegally entering a building with the intent to steal.

Synonyms & similar words

theft robbery break-in heist larceny looting plundering raid stealing swiping thievery trespassing housebreaking pilfering purloining shoplifting snatching stickup

Synonyms by register

Formal

larceny theft robbery felony

Informal

break-in heist snatch pinch

Literary

depredation marauding

Antonyms

protection security defense prevention safeguarding vigilance

Common collocations

  • burglary alarm
  • attempted burglary
  • residential burglary
  • burglary insurance
  • prevent burglary
  • investigate burglary
  • burglary suspect

Word family

noun burglary
verb burgle
adjective burgled

Usage note

Burglary specifically refers to the unlawful entry into a building with the intent to commit a crime, usually theft. It is often confused with robbery, which involves taking property from a person by force or threat.

Example sentences

  1. The police are investigating the burglary that happened last night.
  2. We need to install a security system to prevent burglary.
  3. The burglars stole valuable items from the store.
  4. He was sentenced to prison for committing burglary.
  5. The homeowner was devastated after the burglary.

Quotes

  • Burglary is not a crime of impulse. It's a calculated crime.
  • Burglary is the crime of which we are all victims.
  • Burglary is, in my opinion, the most heinous of all property crimes.

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