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Carjacking

UK //ˈkɑːˌdʒækɪŋ// US //ˈkɑrˌdʒækɪŋ// Pronunciation

Definition

The act of stealing a car through force or intimidation.

Listen to definition

In simple words: Stealing a car by force or threat.

Examples

• The police reported a rise in incidents of carjacking.
• During the night, a man was a victim of a carjacking at gunpoint.
• Carjacking has become a serious concern in urban areas.
• He was arrested for attempting a carjacking after a failed escape.

Usage notes

Used in serious discussions about crime; informal contexts may use lighter terms. Avoid making jokes about it.

Grammar pattern

carjacking + object

Memory hint

Think of 'car' + 'jacking' like 'jacking' a ride in a dramatic way.

Collocations

• increase in carjacking
• victim of carjacking
• report a carjacking

Synonyms

• auto theft
• car theft
• vehicular robbery

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'auto theft' - carjacking is violent, auto theft is not.
• Using 'carjack' as a noun instead of the verb form.
• Mixing it with robbery - carjacking specifically involves a vehicle.