What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
thieftaker
Example
The thieftaker was able to recover the stolen goods and return them to their rightful owner. [thieftaker: noun]
Example
In the 18th century, thieftakers were common in London, hired by victims of theft to recover their stolen property. [thieftakers: plural noun]
detective
Example
The detective was able to solve the case and bring the criminal to justice. [detective: noun]
Example
She decided to pursue a career as a detective after watching crime shows on TV. [detective: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Detective is a more commonly used term than thieftaker in modern language and media. Detective is a versatile term that covers a wide range of contexts and is associated with modern crime-solving and law enforcement.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between thieftaker and detective?
Detective is a more formal term than thieftaker, as it is a modern profession with formal training and education. Thieftaker may have a historical or outdated connotation and is typically associated with a more informal tone.
