steal
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /stiːl/
KK: /stil/
intransitive verb
Definition
To take something that does not belong to you without permission.
Example
He decided to steal a car to escape the police.
Tense Forms
Past: stole
Past Participle: stolen
Conversation
Did you see that player steal second base yesterday?
Yeah, it was such a risky move, but it paid off!
I love when they steal bases; it makes the game so exciting.
Absolutely! It really keeps everyone on the edge of their seats.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
pilfer
snatch
lift
Antonyms
return
give
restore
noun
Definition
The act of taking something that does not belong to you without permission.
Example
The thief was caught after he tried to commit a steal in the store.
Conversation
Did you see that game last night?
Yeah, it was wild! That last-minute steal was incredible.
I know, right? It completely changed the momentum of the game.
transitive verb
Definition
To take something that belongs to someone else without permission, often secretly or dishonestly.
Example
He decided to steal the money from the cash register.
Tense Forms
Past: stole
Past Participle: stolen
Conversation
Did you see how he tried to steal the ball during the game?
Yeah, that was an impressive move!
I thought he was going to get called for a foul when he tried to steal it.
Root Explanation
The word 'steal' originates from Old English 'stelan', meaning to take secretly or unlawfully. It does not have clear Latin or Greek roots but is derived from Germanic origins.
Memory Tip
Think of the Old English word 'stelan', which means to take secretly — this helps you remember that 'steal' means to take something unlawfully.
Visually Confused Words
osteal
teal
seal
upsteal
sternal
resteal
tepal
sweal