What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
theft
Example
The theft of the jewelry was reported to the police. [theft: noun]
Example
He was arrested for theft after stealing a car. [theft: gerund or present participle]
stealing
Example
She was caught stealing from the store and was banned from entering again. [stealing: gerund or present participle]
Example
Stealing is a crime that can result in serious consequences. [stealing: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Stealing is more commonly used than theft in everyday language, especially in informal contexts. However, theft is a more versatile term that can be used in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between theft and stealing?
Theft is a more formal term that is commonly used in legal and official contexts, while stealing is a more informal term that is used in everyday language. Therefore, theft is considered more formal than stealing.
