Shoplift Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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shoplift
[ˈʃɒp.lɪft ]
Definition
theft crime
To shoplift means to steal goods from a retail store or shop. This act usually involves concealing the items on oneself or in one's clothing before exiting the store without paying for them. Shoplifting is a common crime that can result in serious legal repercussions, including fines and imprisonment. Retailers often take measures to prevent shoplifting, such as security cameras and personnel monitoring.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- He was caught trying to shoplift a jacket.
- Shoplifting can lead to a criminal record.
- Many stores have policies to handle shoplifting incidents.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Legal Aspects
- In many countries, shoplifting is considered a crime and can lead to penalties including fines or imprisonment.
- The value of stolen items often determines the severity of the punishment; small items might result in misdemeanors, while high-value theft can lead to felonies.
Psychology
- Some shoplifters may shoplift as a way to cope with emotional distress or low self-esteem.
- Studies show that thrill-seeking or the adrenaline rush can also motivate individuals to engage in shoplifting behaviors.
Technology and Retail
- Retailers use various technologies like security cameras and electronic tags to prevent shoplifting.
- Self-checkout kiosks, while convenient, have also seen a rise in shoplifting incidents due to less staff oversight.
Culture and Media
- Shoplifting acts have often been portrayed in movies and literature as acts of rebellion or desperation, adding a layer of complexity to the crime.
- Documentaries on retail theft often explore the social and economic factors that contribute to this behavior, including poverty and consumer culture.
Origin of 'shoplift'
Main points about word origin
- The term combines 'shop,' meaning a place to buy things, and 'lift,' suggesting a sneaky action of taking without permission.
- The word 'shoplift' first appeared in English around the early 20th century, highlighting a growing concern over retail theft.
The term 'shoplift' is a compound word that combines 'shop' with 'lift', where 'lift' refers to the act of stealing or taking away. The concept of shoplifting dates back to the rise of retail stores in the 19th century. As shops became more accessible to the public, the issue of theft emerged as a significant concern for retailers. Legal responses to shoplifting evolved with the development of laws specifically addressing retail theft. The word itself began to gain popularity in the early 20th century as a descriptive term for this specific type of theft. Over the years, it has become associated with various social and psychological studies related to consumer behavior, making it a well-recognized term in both law enforcement and retail management.