shoplifting

word · lemma: shoplift

Definition

The act of stealing items from a store without paying for them.

Usage & Nuances

"Shoplifting" is a formal and legal term. It describes theft from a retail store by secretly taking items. Often used in police, news, and legal contexts, not for violence or robbery with force. Common collocations: "shoplifting charge", "shoplifting suspect", "arrested for shoplifting".

Example Sentences

Shoplifting is against the law.

basic

Teenagers sometimes try shoplifting as a dare, but it can have serious consequences.

natural

He was caught shoplifting at the mall.

basic

The store owner installed cameras to prevent shoplifting.

basic

The police questioned her after a shoplifting incident.

natural

The store has a zero-tolerance policy for shoplifting.

natural