robbers

word · lemma: robber

/ˈɹɑbɝz/
RAH-burz
/ɹˈɒbəz/
RO-buhz

Definition

People who steal by using force, threats, or violence, especially from banks or people in public places.

Usage & Nuances

Always plural, referring to two or more people who commit robbery. More serious than 'thieves' (who steal secretly). Common collocations: 'bank robbers', 'masked robbers'. Rarely used outside crime contexts.

Example Sentences

The robbers left no evidence at the scene, making it hard for detectives.

natural

The robbers escaped before the police arrived.

basic

Two robbers broke into the bank yesterday.

basic

The robbers wore black masks.

basic

Turns out the robbers had planned everything weeks in advance.

natural

Nobody saw the robbers coming—they were really quiet.

natural