Theft Definition, Meaning and Synonyms
By Muneeza Rehman & Muazma Batool — Updated on April 29, 2024
Discover the correct use of 'Thieft,' often mistakenly spelled as 'Theft,' and learn to distinguish between these frequently confused English words. Our guide offers insights and tips for accurate spelling and usage.
Theft Definitions
Theft of services, where services are used without payment.
Sneaking into the movie theater is considered theft of services.
Smith
Jan 30, 2024
The act of secretly taking something that does not belong to you.
The store installed cameras to deter theft.
Asaiah
Jan 30, 2024
Unlawful taking of someone's property with the intent to permanently deprive them of it.
The theft of her bike left her devastated.
Smith
Jan 30, 2024
The appropriation of ideas or work without giving due credit, often referred to as plagiarism.
His novel was a theft of another author's storyline.
Muazma Batool
Jan 30, 2024
Taking another's property by fraud or embezzlement.
The accountant was charged with the theft of company funds.
Muneeza Rehman
Jan 30, 2024
Identity theft, where personal information is stolen and used fraudulently.
She became a victim of identity theft when her credit card details were stolen.
Camila
Jan 30, 2024
The unlawful taking of the property of another; larceny
The prevention of theft.
Muneeza Rehman
Jan 29, 2024
(Obsolete) Something stolen.
Muneeza Rehman
Jan 29, 2024
The act of stealing property.
Bike theft is on the rise
A suspect was arrested for the theft of a gold necklace.
Kalel
Jan 29, 2024
The act of stealing; specifically, the felonious taking and removing of personal property, with an intent to deprive the rightful owner of the same; larceny.
Asaiah
Jan 29, 2024
The thing stolen.
If the theft be certainly found in his hand alive, . . . he shall restore double.
Maverick
Jan 29, 2024
The act of taking something from someone unlawfully;
The thieving is awful at Kennedy International
Muneeza Rehman
Jan 29, 2024
The act of looting or forcibly taking goods, especially during a catastrophe or war.
The theft of artifacts during the war was widespread.
Camila
Jan 30, 2024
Theft Synonyms
Larceny
The theft of personal property.
Larceny is a common charge in criminal cases.
Muneeza Rehman
Apr 29, 2024
Pilfering
Steal (typically things of relatively little value).
He was caught pilfering goods from the warehouse.
Smith
Apr 29, 2024
Embezzlement
Theft or misappropriation of funds placed in one's trust or belonging to one's employer.
The accountant was convicted of embezzlement.
Xavier
Apr 29, 2024
Robbery
The action of robbing a person or place.
The robbery at the store occurred late at night.
Muneeza Rehman
Apr 29, 2024
Burglary
Entry into a building illegally with intent to commit a crime, especially theft.
The police arrested him for burglary.
Kalel
Apr 29, 2024
Stealing
Taking another person's property without permission or legal right and without intending to return it.
Stealing is punishable by law.
Muneeza Rehman
Apr 29, 2024
Shoplifting
The action of stealing goods from a shop while pretending to be a customer.
Shoplifting costs retailers billions each year.
Darian
Apr 29, 2024
Heist
A robbery from an institution such as a bank or a museum.
The heist movie was praised for its clever plot.
Camila
Apr 29, 2024
Snatching
Quickly seize (something) in a rude or eager way.
Snatching purses is a common street crime.
Muneeza Rehman
Apr 29, 2024
Theft Idioms
Theft of time
Wasting someone's time or using it without their consent.
Interruptions during the workday felt like a theft of time.
Muneeza Rehman
Feb 19, 2024
Theft of thunder
Stealing someone's idea or initiative, diminishing their impact.
Announcing their product first was seen as a theft of thunder from the rival company.
Muazma Batool
Feb 19, 2024
A theft in the night
Something taken or done stealthily or without notice.
The sudden disappearance of the documents was like a theft in the night.
Muneeza Rehman
Feb 19, 2024
Theft of opportunity
Depriving someone of a chance or possibility.
Not being considered for the role felt like a theft of opportunity.
Asaiah
Feb 19, 2024
Theft of hearts
Capturing affection or love in a compelling or overwhelming manner.
With his charming smile, he was known for his theft of hearts.
Muazma Batool
Feb 19, 2024
Theft by finding
Keeping something that one has found without attempting to return it.
Keeping the lost wallet was akin to theft by finding.
Eleanor
Feb 19, 2024
Theft of the senses
Something overwhelmingly beautiful or captivating.
The stunning view of the sunset was like a theft of the senses.
Muneeza Rehman
Feb 19, 2024
Theft of words
Plagiarism or unauthorized use of another's writings or speech.
The journalist was accused of theft of words from a fellow writer.
Muneeza Rehman
Feb 19, 2024
Theft of light
Blocking or overshadowing someone else's moment or success.
The co-star's outstanding performance was a theft of light from the lead actor.
Muneeza Rehman
Feb 19, 2024
Theft of trust
Betraying someone's confidence or faith.
The deceit was the most painful theft of trust she had ever experienced.
Xavier
Feb 19, 2024
Theft Meaning in a Sentence
The police reported a significant increase in car thefts.
Muneeza Rehman
Feb 19, 2024
The museum suffered a significant loss due to the theft.
Muneeza Rehman
Feb 19, 2024
After the theft, the company improved its security measures.
Darian
Feb 19, 2024
Theft from the store has decreased since the new policy was implemented.
Smith
Feb 19, 2024
The theft of digital data has become a major concern.
Muazma Batool
Feb 19, 2024
Theft prevention is a key focus for the new security system.
Bronson
Feb 19, 2024
The artist accused the company of theft of his design.
Muneeza Rehman
Feb 19, 2024
Theft of historical artifacts is a crime against cultural heritage.
Camila
Feb 19, 2024
They were caught on camera committing the theft.
Muneeza Rehman
Feb 19, 2024
Reporting theft immediately can increase the chances of recovery.
Muneeza Rehman
Feb 19, 2024
The community was outraged by the theft of the charity funds.
Asaiah
Feb 19, 2024
The theft left her feeling violated and insecure.
Kalel
Feb 19, 2024
Theft of intellectual property can harm innovation and creativity.
Muazma Batool
Feb 19, 2024
Identity theft is a growing problem in the digital age.
Bronson
Feb 19, 2024
He was found guilty of theft and sentenced to jail.
Bronson
Feb 19, 2024
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the legal definition of 'theft'?
Theft is legally defined as the unauthorized taking of another's property with the intent to deprive them of it permanently.
Muneeza Rehman
Feb 19, 2024
What is the difference between 'theft' and 'robbery'?
Theft generally refers to the taking of property without confrontation or violence, whereas robbery involves force or threat of force.
Muneeza Rehman
Feb 19, 2024
Is 'theft' a misdemeanor or a felony?
The classification of theft as a misdemeanor or felony depends on the value of the stolen property and the jurisdiction's laws.
Muneeza Rehman
Feb 19, 2024
How can one protect against theft?
Protective measures include securing physical and digital properties, being vigilant, and using security systems or practices.
Maverick
Feb 19, 2024
How is 'theft' proven in court?
To prove theft, the prosecution must typically show the taking of property without permission, with the intent to deprive the owner of it permanently.
Asaiah
Feb 19, 2024
Is 'theft' a common law or statutory offense?
Theft is a statutory offense, defined by laws enacted by legislatures, though its principles are rooted in common law.
Bronson
Feb 19, 2024
What is the plural form of 'theft'?
The plural form of 'theft' is 'thefts.'
Muneeza Rehman
Feb 19, 2024
What is 'intellectual property theft'?
Intellectual property theft involves stealing or using someone's intellectual property, like inventions, literary works, or designs, without permission.
Eleanor
Feb 19, 2024
What is 'theft by deception'?
Theft by deception involves obtaining property through deceit or misrepresentation.
Muneeza Rehman
Feb 19, 2024
What is 'petty theft'?
Petty theft refers to the stealing of property of relatively low value, often classified as a misdemeanor.
Eleanor
Feb 19, 2024
What is 'grand theft'?
Grand theft refers to the stealing of property above a certain value, defined by law, and is typically classified as a felony.
Muazma Batool
Feb 19, 2024
Can 'theft' be non-physical, like identity theft?
Yes, theft can be non-physical, as in the case of identity theft where personal information is stolen and used fraudulently.
Xavier
Feb 19, 2024
What are the consequences of a theft conviction?
Consequences can include jail or prison time, fines, restitution to the victim, and a criminal record.
Muneeza Rehman
Feb 19, 2024
What is the origin of the word 'theft'?
The word 'theft' comes from the Old English 'theofth,' related to 'thief,' and has been used to describe the act of stealing since before the 12th century.
Maverick
Feb 19, 2024
Content Creators
Written by
Muneeza RehmanAt Definitions Wiki, Muneeza's commitment to clarity and precision extends beyond the realm of definitions. She believes that a thorough understanding of words empowers individuals to communicate effectively and appreciate the beauty of language in all its forms.
Co-written by
Muazma BatoolAs a copywriter, Muazma weaves words into a tapestry of compelling stories that capture hearts and minds. With a keen eye for detail and a mastery of language, she crafts messages that move people to action and create lasting impact.
