Steal Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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steal

[stiːl ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

crime

To take (something) without permission or legal right and without intending to return it.

Synonyms

pilfer, rob, thieve.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
steal	Used in a general sense when someone takes something without permission. It does not specify the scale or method of the act. He was caught trying to steal a laptop from the store
thieve	Similar to 'steal,' but more colloquial and often used to describe habitual or professional stealing. He has been thieving since he was a teenager
rob	Conveys taking something by force or threat, typically in a violent or aggressive manner. Often associated with banks, homes, or individuals. The masked men robbed the bank in broad daylight
pilfer	Implies taking small amounts or items, often repeatedly, and usually from a workplace or a store. It is generally used in less serious contexts. She was dismissed from her job after she was found pilfering office supplies

Examples of usage

He was caught stealing money from the cash register.
She stole my phone while I wasn't looking.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

ideas

To take (another person's idea) and use it as one's own.

Synonyms

appropriate, copy, plagiarize.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
steal	Used when someone takes something that doesn't belong to them, usually secretly and without permission. He decided to steal the bicycle from the parking lot She warned her kids not to steal candy from the store
plagiarize	Used specifically in academic, writing, or creative contexts to describe taking someone else's words, ideas, or work and presenting them as one's own. This has a strongly negative connotation. The student was expelled for trying to plagiarize parts of his research paper Authors must ensure they do not plagiarize content to maintain their credibility
copy	Used when someone duplicates or reproduces something exactly. It can have a neutral or negative connotation based on the intent and originality involved. She decided to copy the design of the dress from a fashion magazine He got into trouble for trying to copy his friend's answers during the exam
appropriate	Used in a more formal context, often relating to business, politics, or finance, when someone takes something for their own use, usually with a sense of authority or right but without permission. The manager was accused of trying to appropriate funds from the company The government decided to appropriate the land for a new highway

Examples of usage

He stole the concept for his new song from a lesser-known artist.
She accused him of stealing her design for the project.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

informal

Something that has been stolen.

Synonyms

heist, robbery, theft.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
steal	Use for taking something without permission or legal right, usually secretly. She was caught trying to steal a bracelet from the store. I can't believe you would steal money from your own parents.
theft	A broad term for the act of taking someone's property, typically without force. He was arrested for car theft. Petty theft is a frequent issue in this neighborhood.
robbery	Involves taking property from someone through force or intimidation. The convenience store was a victim of robbery last night. The couple was frightened during the home robbery.
heist	Refers to a well-planned and large-scale theft, often involving a group and significant value items. The notorious gang pulled off a bank heist last night. They made millions from their last jewelry store heist.

Examples of usage

The police recovered the stolen goods from the thief's house.
She reported the steal to the authorities.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'steal'

The word 'steal' has Old English origins, with roots in the Germanic word 'stelan'. It has been used in English for centuries to describe the act of taking something without permission. The concept of stealing has been a part of human society since ancient times, with laws and punishments evolving to deter theft. Throughout history, the definition and consequences of stealing have varied across different cultures and legal systems.

See also: stealer, stealing, stealth, stole.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #7,598 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.

...
7595 diligence
7596 allegedly
7597 fury
7598 steal
7599 eagerly
7600 disappearance
7601 pursuance
...