What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
heist
Example
The gang planned the heist for months before executing it flawlessly. [heist: noun]
Example
They heisted millions of dollars from the bank in a daring robbery. [heisted: past tense verb]
theft
Example
The store owner reported the theft of several items from the shelves. [theft: noun]
Example
She was charged with theft after stealing money from her employer. [theft: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Theft is a more common word than heist in everyday language. Theft is a broad term that covers a wide range of situations, while heist is a more specific and less common term that is often associated with dramatic or high-profile crimes.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between heist and theft?
Both heist and theft are considered formal words and are appropriate for use in professional or academic contexts. However, heist may have a slightly more informal or colloquial connotation due to its association with popular culture and media portrayals of crime.
