B2verb2K

Rob

UK /["/rɒb/","/rɒbz/","/rɒbd/","/ˈrɒbɪŋ/"]/US /["/rɑːb/","/rɑːbz/","/rɑːbd/","/ˈrɑːbɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to steal money or property from a person or place

In simple words: To take something from someone by force or threat.

Examples

  • to **rob a bank**
  • The tomb had been robbed of its treasures.
  • The gang had robbed and killed the drugstore owner.
  • The tourists were robbed of their bags.
  • An armed gang robbed a bank in Main Street last night.
  • He was accused of robbing the company's pension funds.
  • In the 19th century doctors robbed graves to obtain cadavers for medical training purposes.
  • You can’t trust them. They’ll rob you blind as soon as your back is turned.

Usage notes

Use 'rob' when talking about theft that involves threats or violence. It's more serious than just stealing. Avoid using 'rob' in casual contexts or when describing non-violent theft.

Grammar pattern

rob + object + of + object

Memory hint

Think 'robber' — imagine a masked figure taking money from a bank.

Collocations

  • rob a bank
  • rob someone
  • rob of possessions
  • rob at gunpoint
  • rob a house

Synonyms

  • steal
  • plunder
  • loot
  • burgle
  • thieve

Antonyms

  • give
  • donate
  • contribute

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'steal' — 'steal' does not imply violence.
  • Using 'rob' without specifying what was taken.
  • Wrongly using 'rob' for non-violent acts, like taking something back.