B2noun10K+

Robbery

UK /["/ˈrɒbəri/"]/US /["/ˈrɑːbəri/"]/

Definition

the crime of stealing money or goods from a bank, shop, person, etc., especially using violence or threats

In simple words: Stealing from someone, usually with force.

Examples

  • **armed robbery** *(= using a gun, knife, etc.)*
  • There has been a spate of robberies in the area recently.
  • He was shot as he tried to foil a **bank robbery**.
  • He already had a conviction for armed robbery.

Usage notes

Used in legal contexts and general discussions about crime. It's inappropriate in casual conversations or lighthearted contexts.

Grammar pattern

robbery + of + object

Memory hint

Imagine a robber in a ski mask taking money by force—think 'rob-a-ry'.

Collocations

  • attempted
  • botched
  • bungled
  • commit
  • take part in
  • foil
  • attempt
  • charge
  • suspect
  • robbery with violence

Synonyms

  • theft
  • burglary
  • stealing
  • heist
  • hold-up

Antonyms

  • generosity
  • donation

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'burglary', which is entering a place to steal when no one is present.
  • Used as a verb; correct form is 'to commit robbery'.
  • Omitting details about the violent aspect of robbery.