Word: pilfering

Associations

Pilfering means to steal things, usually in small amounts. It is often associated with petty theft or sneaky actions.

• Example 1: "The clerk was caught pilfering cash from the register." This shows someone stealing small amounts of money when no one is watching.
• Example 2: "She was accused of pilfering office supplies for her home." Here, it describes taking small items that don't belong to you from work.
• Example 3: "The workers were warned against pilfering food from the kitchen." This indicates that they were told not to steal small amounts of food.

The synonym "stealing" can refer to both small and large thefts. Pilfering usually means stealing small, less valuable items as opposed to significant or serious theft.

Substitution

Other words you can use instead of "pilfering" include:

• "Theft": This is a more general term for taking anything that does not belong to you.
• "Shoplifting": This specifically refers to stealing items from a store, usually while pretending to shop.
• "Embezzling": This is taking money or property that one has been trusted with, often by someone in a position of authority.

Deconstruction

The word "pilfering" comes from the Middle English word "pilfer," which is believed to be derived from the Late Latin term “pēliferare,” meaning to steal. It has a playful tone to it, implying that the act is small and sneaky rather than bold and brazen.

Inquiry

• Can you think of a time when you noticed someone pilfering, perhaps a friend or a family member? How did it make you feel?
• In what situations do you think pilfering is likely to happen? Why do people sometimes take things that don’t belong to them?
• How might someone's life change if they were caught pilfering?