A2verb1K

Steal

UK /["/stiːl/","/stiːlz/","/stəʊl/","/ˈstəʊlən/","/ˈstiːlɪŋ/"]/US /["/stiːl/","/stiːlz/","/stəʊl/","/ˈstəʊlən/","/ˈstiːlɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to take something from a person, shop, etc. without permission and without intending to return it or pay for it

In simple words: To take something that doesn't belong to you.

Examples

  • He tried to steal a bike from the park.
  • The thief plans to steal money from the bank.
  • Don’t steal my ideas; it's not fair!
  • She stole a glance at her friends across the room.
  • The artist seems to steal inspiration from nature.

Usage notes

Used in both formal and informal contexts. Often implies wrongdoing. Avoid in polite conversation unless discussing theft as a crime.

Grammar pattern

steal + object

Memory hint

Think of a thief quietly 'stealing' cookies from a jar.

Collocations

  • steal money
  • steal a car
  • steal someone's heart
  • steal ideas
  • steal a glance

Synonyms

  • creep

Antonyms

  • give
  • return
  • donate

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'rob' - 'steal' refers to taking items, while 'rob' involves using force.
  • Using 'steal' with an inanimate object wrongly. It's generally used for tangible items.
  • Incorrect past tense form: 'steal' should become 'stole', not 'stealed'.