What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
subtiliser
Example
The thief managed to subtilize the jewels from the museum without anyone noticing. [subtilize: verb]
Example
He was caught subtilizing money from his employer's cash register. [subtilizing: gerund or present participle]
pilfer
Example
The employee was caught pilfering office supplies from the company. [pilfer: verb]
Example
She was accused of pilfering food from her roommate's pantry. [pilfering: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Pilfer is more commonly used than subtiliser in everyday language. Pilfer is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while subtiliser is less common and more formal, and is often used in legal or academic contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between subtiliser and pilfer?
Subtiliser is a more formal word than pilfer, and is often used in legal or academic contexts. Pilfer, on the other hand, is more commonly used in everyday language and is less formal.
