What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ransack
Example
The police ransacked the suspect's apartment looking for evidence. [ransacked: past tense]
Example
She ransacked her closet trying to find her missing necklace. [ransack: verb]
loot
Example
The rioters looted several stores in the downtown area. [looted: past tense]
Example
The burglars took all the valuable loot from the jewelry store. [loot: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Loot is more commonly used than ransack in everyday language, especially in the context of theft or robbery. Ransack is less common and is usually reserved for more specific situations, such as searching for evidence or a lost item.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between ransack and loot?
Both ransack and loot are associated with negative or illegal behavior and are therefore generally considered informal or even vulgar. However, ransack may be used in more formal contexts if done with permission or a warrant.
