Translation guide
A person who steals by sneaking in and out without being noticed, often while the victim is present or nearby.
To refer to a person who steals by sneaking into a place, especially a home, without being detected.
The most common term for a burglar who targets homes when the residents are out. Literally 'empty nest', it emphasizes the absence of the occupant.
There have been a series of sneak thief incidents in the neighborhood.
Refers to a thief who sneaks in while the resident is home, often at night. Emphasizes stealth and the act of entering.
Lock your doors to avoid being a victim of a sneak thief.
General term for 'thief' or 'burglar'. Can be used for a sneak thief in context, but is broader.
It seems a thief entered through the window.
A petty thief who sneaks around to steal small items. Slightly old-fashioned and colloquial.
I had my wallet stolen by a sneak thief.
空き巣 targets empty houses, while 忍び込み enters when residents are present. Use 空き巣 for daytime burglaries and 忍び込み for nighttime intrusions.