What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
pinched
Example
He pinched a cookie from the jar when no one was looking. [pinched: verb]
Example
The thief pinched the wallet from the tourist's pocket. [pinched: past participle]
stolen
Example
The stolen car was found abandoned in the parking lot. [stolen: adjective]
Example
She had stolen some money from her parents to buy a new dress. [stolen: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Stolen is more commonly used than pinched in everyday language, especially in American English.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between pinched and stolen?
Stolen is more formal than pinched, which is more informal and colloquial.
