Bandit: meaning, definitions and examples

Use when referring to someone who often steals in a violent or organized manner, particularly in rural or less civilized areas.

• The bandit held the travelers at gunpoint and demanded their valuables.
• A notorious bandit gang has been terrorizing the countryside.

Refers to someone who has broken the law and is living outside society, often with a sense of romanticism or rebellion.

• The outlaw was wanted in several states for his crimes.
• Legends tell of outlaws who stood against corrupt officials.

Describes someone who steals by force, threats, or by breaking into places, often associated with banks or stores.

• The masked robber broke into the bank last night.
• They installed security cameras to deter robbers.

Used for someone who secretly steals without using violence, focusing more on the act of theft itself.

• The thief managed to steal the wallet without anyone noticing.
• Beware of pickpockets and thieves in crowded areas.

Usually refers to a person who steals, often involving violence or threat. Often associated with historical or fictional characters like cowboys.

• The bandits attacked the village and stole all the livestock
• The cowboy outsmarted the bandits and saved the town

Refers to someone who acts dishonestly to gain an advantage, often in games, exams, or relationships. Can be used in various contexts including personal and professional scenarios.

• He was caught cheating on his final exams
• She felt betrayed when she found out he cheated on her

A person who uses lies or tricks to cheat people out of money or possessions. Often used in the context of cons and fraud.

• The swindler tricked the elderly couple into investing in a fake business
• He was exposed as a swindler and went to jail for his crimes

Describes someone who deceives others to get money or personal information, often through elaborate schemes. Has a negative connotation.

• The scammer convinced her to give him her credit card information
• Online scammers are getting more sophisticated every day