What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
pilferer
Example
The pilferer was caught stealing office supplies from the company's storage room. [pilferer: noun]
Example
She noticed that someone had been pilfering small amounts of cash from her wallet. [pilfering: gerund or present participle]
shoplifter
Example
The shoplifter was caught trying to steal a pair of shoes from the store. [shoplifter: noun]
Example
He was charged with shoplifting after being caught with stolen goods in his backpack. [shoplifting: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Shoplifter is more commonly used than pilferer in everyday language. Shoplifting is a more specific term that is widely recognized and used in legal and law enforcement contexts. Pilfering is less common and may be seen as an outdated term.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between pilferer and shoplifter?
Both pilferer and shoplifter are formal terms that are typically used in legal or law enforcement contexts. However, shoplifter is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while pilferer may be considered more formal and less commonly used in everyday language.
