Looting: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used to describe the theft of items during chaotic situations such as natural disasters, wars, or civil disturbances. It often highlights the opportunistic nature of the act.

• During the hurricane, people were looting stores for food and water.
• The looting started after the protests turned violent.

Similar to pillaging, but can also be used in more formal or literary contexts. It implies systematic and large-scale theft, often by military forces.

• The invaders were notorious for plundering the treasures of conquered cities.
• The historical novel describes the plundering of the royal palace in great detail.

Often used in historical or fictional contexts to describe the violent theft of goods, usually by armed forces or invaders. It has a more aggressive and destructive connotation.

• The medieval army was known for pillaging villages and taking everything of value.
• The pirates pillaged the coastal towns leaving nothing but ruins.

Used to describe the act of taking something from someone or a place using force or threats. It's often used in everyday situations involving theft.

• He was arrested for a bank robbery.
• The convenience store was the scene of an armed robbery last night.

Typically used when people take goods illegally, especially during unrest or a disaster. Often implies chaotic or opportunistic actions.

• During the riots, many stores were subject to looting.
• The hurricane left the city vulnerable to widespread looting.

A general term for taking something that isn't yours, without permission. Can be used in various situations, from minor theft to serious crime.

• He tried to steal a car.
• Someone stole my wallet while I was at the park.

Often used to describe the action of stealing goods, especially during times of war or conflict. It implies taking valuable items.

• The pirates plundered the ship for its treasure.
• The soldiers plundered the conquered city.

Commonly used in historical or wartime contexts where villages or towns are attacked and robbed violently. Often involves destruction.

• The invaders pillaged the village, leaving nothing behind.
• Medieval armies would often pillage towns they conquered.