What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
steal
Example
He stole the money from the cash register. [steal: verb]
Example
She was caught stealing a necklace from the store. [stealing: gerund or present participle]
thieve
Example
The museum was robbed by a group of professional thieves. [thieves: noun]
Example
He was accused of thieving from his employer. [thieving: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Steal is more commonly used than thieve in everyday language. It is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while thieve is less common and often used in more formal or literary situations.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between steal and thieve?
Thieve is a more formal and literary word than steal. It is often used in more serious or professional contexts, while steal can be used in both formal and informal situations.
