shoplifting Definition
the act of stealing goods from a shop while pretending to be a customer.
Using shoplifting: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "shoplifting" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
He was caught shoplifting at the mall.
Example
Shoplifting is a common problem for retailers.
Example
She was charged with shoplifting after being caught with stolen merchandise.
shoplifting Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with shoplifting
Example
The store has had several incidents of lift and run shoplifting in the past month.
five-finger discount
slang term for shoplifting
Example
He thought it was funny to refer to his shoplifting as a five-finger discount.
Example
The police found a booster bag in his car, along with several stolen items.
Summary: shoplifting in Brief
Shoplifting [ˈʃɒplɪftɪŋ] is the act of stealing goods from a shop while pretending to be a customer. It is a common problem for retailers and can be referred to informally as 'stealing' or 'swiping.' Shoplifting can take the form of 'lift and run,' where the thief takes an item and runs out of the store, or the use of a 'booster bag,' which is a bag lined with material that blocks security tags. Shoplifting is illegal and can result in charges of theft or larceny.
