steal from

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "steal from" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the act of taking something unlawfully or without permission from someone else. Example: "He was caught trying to steal from the local store."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

You can't steal from people.

The New York Times

You steal from everything".

The Guardian

We cannot steal from our children".

Independent

The drunks will steal from them".

The New York Times

You are trying to steal from me.

Independent

Vy must you steal from other crooks?

The New Yorker

And always steal from your friends.

The New York Times - Books

"You can't steal from this place".

The New Yorker

"I did not steal from government.

The New York Times

We'll steal from each other".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Did they steal from him?

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "steal from", be specific about what is being stolen and from whom. For example, "He was accused of stealing funds from the charity."

Common error

Avoid using "steal from" when a more precise verb like "plagiarize", "embezzle", or "defraud" would better convey the nature of the act.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "steal from" is that of a phrasal verb. It requires both parts to convey the meaning of taking something without permission. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase is frequently found in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "steal from" is a commonly used phrasal verb that describes the act of taking something without permission or illegally. Ludwig AI confirms its correct grammatical structure and widespread use. It appears frequently in news, media, and various other contexts. While it's generally acceptable, more precise verbs like "embezzle" or "plagiarize" might be preferred in formal writing to enhance clarity. Related phrases include "rob of", "pilfer from", and "appropriate from", each carrying slightly different nuances. When using "steal from", ensure clarity by specifying what is being stolen and from whom.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

rip off

A more informal way to say steal from

take without permission

Highlights the lack of consent in the act of taking.

plagiarize from

Focuses on copying ideas or words without giving credit.

rob of

Focuses on the act of taking something by force or threat.

appropriate from

Emphasizes taking something for one's own use, often without permission.

pilfer from

Suggests stealing small items or amounts, often in a sneaky way.

defraud of

Implies obtaining something by deception or trickery.

copy from

Implies taking something non-physical, like an idea

embezzle from

Refers to stealing money from an organization one works for.

derive from

Implies taking inspiration instead of literally stealing something

FAQs

How can I use "steal from" in a sentence?

You can use "steal from" to describe the act of taking something dishonestly or without permission, as in, "The thief attempted to steal from the jewelry store".

What are some alternatives to "steal from"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "rob of", "pilfer from", or "embezzle from".

What's the difference between "steal from" and "rob of"?

"Steal from" generally refers to taking something secretly or without force, while "rob of" implies taking something using force or threat of force.

Is it appropriate to use "steal from" in formal writing?

While "steal from" is a common phrase, consider using a more precise term like "misappropriate", "embezzle", or "defraud of" in formal or professional contexts for clarity and impact.