What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
pilfered
Example
The employee was caught pilfering office supplies from the storage room. [pilfering: present participle]
Example
Someone pilfered my wallet while I was distracted at the coffee shop. [pilfered: past tense]
lifted
Example
The thief lifted the purse from the woman's shoulder and ran away. [lifted: past tense]
Example
I can't find my phone, someone must have lifted it from my bag. [lifted: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Lifted is more commonly used in American English, while pilfered is more commonly used in British English. Both words are less common in everyday language and are more likely to be used in formal or legal contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between pilfered and lifted?
Both pilfered and lifted are formal words that are typically used in legal or official contexts. However, lifted has a more negative connotation and may be considered more informal in certain contexts.