steal

[stiːl]

steal Definition

  • 1to take something that belongs to someone else without permission or paying for it
  • 2to move somewhere quietly and secretly in order to avoid being noticed

Using steal: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "steal" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    Someone stole my wallet on the train.

  • Example

    She was caught stealing a pair of shoes from the store.

  • Example

    He stole a glance at his watch.

  • Example

    The thief stole into the house while they were sleeping.

  • Example

    The spy stole the secret documents from the safe.

steal Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for steal

Antonyms for steal

Phrases with steal

  • steal someone's thunder

    to take credit for someone else's idea or achievement

    Example

    I was going to announce my discovery at the meeting, but my colleague stole my thunder by revealing it first.

  • to attract the most attention and praise in a situation

    Example

    The lead actor's performance was so good that he stole the show from the rest of the cast.

  • to gain an advantage over someone by doing something before they have a chance to do it

    Example

    By arriving early, we were able to steal a march on the competition and secure the best seats in the auditorium.

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Summary: steal in Brief

To 'steal' [stiːl] is to take something that doesn't belong to you without permission or payment, or to move quietly and secretly to avoid being noticed. Examples include 'Someone stole my wallet on the train' and 'The thief stole into the house while they were sleeping.' Phrases like 'steal someone's thunder' and 'steal the show' describe taking credit or attention from others, while 'steal a march on someone' means gaining an advantage by acting first.

How do native speakers use this expression?