Synonyms for

Theft

Verb / θeft / Another word for theft — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

The act of stealing; taking someone else's property without permission.

Synonyms & similar words

thievery stealing thieving larceny stealing robbery larceny thievery pilferage embezzlement shoplifting burglary plundering looting misappropriation filching appropriation trespass raiding mugging pickpocketing swiping pinching peculation

Synonyms by register

Formal

larceny pilfering embezzlement appropriation

Informal

swipe nick pinch lift snatch

Literary

marauding plunder spoliation

Antonyms

ownership possession legality honesty earning acquisition

Common collocations

  • petty theft
  • grand theft
  • shop theft
  • vehicle theft
  • art theft
  • identity theft
  • prevent theft

Word family

noun theft
verb steal
adjective thieving
adverb thievishly

Usage note

Theft is a general term for the unlawful taking of property. More specific legal terms like larceny or embezzlement are often used in formal contexts.

Example sentences

  1. She was caught committing theft at the mall.
  2. He was charged with theft of a bicycle.
  3. The store owner reported a theft of merchandise.
  4. The police department has been investigating a series of thefts in the area.
  5. He was sentenced to jail for theft of a car.

Quotes

  • The greatest thief this world has ever produced is procrastination, and he is still at large.
  • The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy.
  • The best thieves are politicians, and the biggest thieves are the bankers.

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