Translation guide
The concept of theft in Japanese is expressed through various words and phrases depending on the context, such as the type of theft, legal terminology, or everyday speech. This guide covers the most common and useful expressions for English-speaking learners.
To express the act of stealing in a general sense, suitable for most everyday situations.
The most common noun for 'theft' or 'stealing'. Used in everyday conversation and writing.
Theft is a crime.
He was caught for theft.
A more formal or legal term for 'theft' or 'larceny'. Often used in news reports and legal contexts.
He was arrested on suspicion of theft.
A nominalized form of the verb 'to steal', meaning 'the act of stealing'. More explanatory than 盗み.
Stealing is wrong.
To refer to particular kinds of theft, such as burglary, shoplifting, or robbery.
Refers to a burglar or a burglary, specifically when the resident is away. Very common in crime reports.
My house was burglarized (while I was out).
Shoplifting. The standard term for stealing from a store.
Robbery or burglary involving force or threat. More serious than simple theft.
Theft of luggage or belongings left unattended, e.g., at a station. A specific type of theft.
To discuss theft in legal, official, or formal contexts.
To express the action of stealing.
盗み (nusumi) is the general term for theft. 窃盗 (settō) is a formal/legal term. 強盗 (gōtō) specifically refers to robbery with force or threat. Use 盗み in everyday speech, 窃盗 in news or legal contexts, and 強盗 for violent theft.
Stealing is not good.
Theft cases are increasing.
A robber attacked a convenience store.
While 盗む can be used for stealing ideas in casual speech, in formal contexts it's better to use phrases like 盗用する (tōyō suru) for plagiarism or アイデアを盗む (aidea o nusumu) for idea theft. Using 盗む alone might sound too direct or criminal.
He plagiarized my paper.
Theft is a serious problem in this area.
He was arrested for theft.
Shoplifting is a form of theft.
万引きは犯罪です。
Shoplifting is a crime.
He was caught shoplifting.
銀行強盗が発生した。
A bank robbery occurred.
駅で置き引きにあった。
I had my bag stolen at the station (while I wasn't looking).
盗難に遭いました。
I was a victim of theft.
anti-theft device
The robber took the money.
That guy stole my idea.