What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
bandit
Example
The bandit held up the bank and escaped with a bag of money. [bandit: noun]
Example
The bandits raided the village, stealing valuables from the residents. [bandits: plural noun]
thief
Example
The thief stole my wallet while I was distracted. [thief: noun]
Example
She caught the thief red-handed, trying to steal from the store. [thief: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Thief is more commonly used than bandit in everyday language. Thief is a versatile term that can be used in various contexts, while bandit is less common and often used in specific situations or storytelling.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between bandit and thief?
Both bandit and thief can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, thief is more neutral and widely accepted, making it more suitable for formal situations.