What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
pilferer
Example
The pilferer stole a few dollars from the cash register. [pilferer: noun]
Example
She was caught pilfering office supplies from her workplace. [pilfering: gerund or present participle]
thief
Example
The thief broke into the house and stole all the valuable items. [thief: noun]
Example
He was arrested for theft after stealing a car from the parking lot. [theft: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Thief is more commonly used than pilferer in everyday language. Thief is a more versatile word that covers a wide range of contexts, while pilferer is less common and refers to a specific type of stealing.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between pilferer and thief?
Both pilferer and thief are considered formal words and are used in more serious or legal contexts. However, thief is more commonly used in everyday language and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
