What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
shoplifted
Example
The teenager was caught shoplifting candy from the convenience store. [shoplifted: verb]
Example
Shoplifting is a serious offense that can result in fines and even jail time. [shoplifting: noun]
steal
Example
He stole his neighbor's bike and got in trouble with the police. [stole: past tense verb]
Example
Stealing is wrong and can have serious consequences. [stealing: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Steal is more commonly used than shoplifted in everyday language. Steal is a versatile term that can be used in various contexts, while shoplifted is less common and more specific to retail theft.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between shoplifted and steal?
Both shoplifted and steal are considered formal terms and are appropriate for use in legal or academic contexts.
