What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
jimmying
Example
The burglar was caught jimmying the lock on the back door. [jimmying: present participle]
Example
He used a screwdriver to jimmy the window open and climb inside. [jimmy: verb]
burglary
Example
The police are investigating a burglary that occurred last night at the jewelry store. [burglary: noun]
Example
He was charged with burglary and sentenced to five years in prison. [burglary: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Burglary is a more commonly used term than jimmying in everyday language. Burglary is a serious criminal offense that is widely recognized and understood, while jimmying is a more specific term that may not be as well-known or frequently used.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between jimmying and burglary?
Burglary is a formal term that is typically used in legal or official contexts, while jimmying is a more informal term that may be used in casual conversation or news reports.
