Stole: meaning, definitions and examples

Used generally for taking something without permission but without specifying the method or details; neutral term for theft.

• She stole a loaf of bread to feed her hungry children
• He stole my idea and presented it as his own

Implies taking something from a person or place, often using force or threats; typically involves a victim.

• The bank was robbed at gunpoint by three masked men
• He was robbed of his wallet while walking through the park

Often used in a more formal or literary context, suggesting discreet or sneaky theft.

• She purloined a letter from his desk and read it secretly
• The spy purloined valuable documents from the enemy base

Informal context, often suggesting a quick or sly action; can have a slightly playful or light-hearted connotation.

• He swiped a cookie from the jar when no one was looking
• Someone swiped her phone from the table at the café

Use when referring to taking someone else's property without permission, typically in a legal or criminal context.

• He stole a bicycle from the park
• The thief stole valuable jewelry from the store

Use in academic or creative contexts to describe using someone else's work, ideas, or expressions as your own without giving them credit. This word has a negative connotation and implies dishonesty.

• He was expelled from university because he plagiarized his thesis
• The author got into trouble for plagiarizing entire paragraphs from another book

Use when referring to making a reproduction or imitation of something, usually in the context of documents, art, or information.

• She copied the notes from the lecture
• The artist made a copy of the famous painting

Usually used in formal or bureaucratic contexts to mean taking something for one's own use, often without permission. This can imply misuse of power or position.

• The company manager appropriated funds for personal use
• The government appropriated land for public projects