What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
pilferage
Example
The company suffered losses due to pilferage by its employees. [pilferage: noun]
Example
He was caught pilfering office supplies from the storage room. [pilfering: verb]
embezzlement
Example
The accountant was arrested for embezzlement of company funds. [embezzlement: noun]
Example
She was accused of embezzling money from the charity organization. [embezzling: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Embezzlement is a more commonly used term than pilferage in everyday language, as it is a more serious crime that receives more media attention. However, both terms are used in legal contexts and are important to understand.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between pilferage and embezzlement?
Both pilferage and embezzlement are formal terms used in legal and business contexts. They are not typically used in casual conversation.
