Difference between “rob,” “thief,” and “steal”

Difference between "rob," "thief," and "steal" Espresso English

The thief is watching you…

Difference between "rob," "thief," and "steal" Espresso EnglishThis is a free sample from the e-book  600+ Confusing English Words Explained. It will help clear up your doubts about how to use English words correctly, so that you can speak and write more confidently. Click here for more information!

Robber or Thief (n.)= the person

  • The robbers ran away from the police.
  • The thief took my laptop and cell phone.
  • “Give me all your money!” the robber said.
  • The thieves were tall, white men who looked about 22 years old. One had brown hair and the other was blonde.

Robbery (n.) = the event

  • Police are investigating the robbery of the Main Street Bank.
  • The robbery occurred at 4:30 PM.
  • Three employees were injured during the armed robbery.
    (an “armed robbery” means there were weapons – guns or knives)

Theft (n.) = the event or the crime (in the justice system)

  • He was sentenced to eight years in prison for the theft of a motorcycle.
  • We immediately reported the theft to the police.
  • Ken was accused of identity theft.

Rob (v.) = the action

Often used in the past as robbed:

  • Donald robbed a total of five supermarkets before being caught by the police.
  • My favorite pizza shop was robbed last month. Luckily, no one was hurt.
  • I was robbed at gunpoint while walking home from work.

Steal / Stolen (v.) = the action of taking something specific

Steal is always used together with an object – the object that was taken.

  • The thief stole a gold necklace from the woman’s bedroom.
  • Wendy’s wallet was stolen on the subway.
  • Jim was caught stealing money from his own company.
  • Rachel tried to steal Carla’s boyfriend.

Clear up your doubts about confusing words… and use English more confidently!

Difference between "rob," "thief," and "steal" Espresso English

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