What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
purloiner
Example
The purloiner snatched the wallet from the unsuspecting tourist. [purloiner: noun]
Example
She was caught purloining office supplies from her workplace. [purloining: gerund or present participle]
thief
Example
The thief broke into the house and stole all the valuables. [thief: noun]
Example
He was arrested for stealing a car from the parking lot. [stealing: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Thief is a more commonly used word than purloiner in everyday language. Thief is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while purloiner is less common and may be considered more formal or literary.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between purloiner and thief?
While purloiner may be considered more formal or literary, both words can be used in various formality levels, allowing them to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
