Burglary vs. Robbery: What's the Difference?
Burglary and robbery are often confused, yet they refer to different types of crimes. Burglary involves unlawful entry into a building or structure with the intent to commit a crime, typically theft, but not necessarily so. Robbery, on the other hand, is characterized by the use of force or intimidation to take someone's property against their will. While burglary does not require the victim to be present, robbery does.
How do you use the word burglary in a sentence?
Use the word burglary when describing a crime where an individual illegally enters a building with the intent to commit an offense, often theft. It does not need to involve the breaking of doors or locks, as even entering through an unlocked window could constitute burglary. One does not have to successfully steal anything to be charged with burglary—mere unauthorized entry with criminal intent is enough.
Examples of burglary in a sentence
- The police arrested two suspects in connection with a series of home burglaries in the neighborhood.
- During the burglary, the thieves took jewelry and electronics while the homeowners were on vacation.
- He was charged with burglary after being caught inside a closed shop at night.
How do you use the word robbery in a sentence?
The word robbery is used when referring to the act of taking something from someone by force or threat of force. Robberies often occur in person and involve direct interaction with the victim. It is essential to note the element of danger to the victim in the definition of robbery, which distinguishes it significantly from burglary.
Examples of robbery in a sentence
- The suspect was apprehended shortly after the bank robbery and taken into custody.
- During the armed robbery, the perpetrator demanded cash from the store clerk and threatened violence.
- The community was shocked by the violent robbery of an elderly woman in broad daylight.
Burglary and robbery definition, parts of speech, and pronunciation
Burglary definition:
Burglary is the crime of entering a structure, such as a home or business, without permission and with the intent to commit a crime inside, not necessarily limited to theft.
Burglary parts of speech:
Burglary pronunciation:
Burglary is pronounced as /ˈbɜːrɡləri/.
Robbery definition:
Robbery is the act of taking property unlawfully from a person or place by force or threat of force.
Robbery parts of speech:
Robbery pronunciation:
Robbery is pronounced as /ˈrɒbəri/.
Burglary is the crime of entering a structure, such as a home or business, without permission and with the intent to commit a crime inside, not necessarily limited to theft.
Burglary parts of speech:
- Noun: The burglary at the office happened over the weekend when no one was present.
Burglary pronunciation:
Burglary is pronounced as /ˈbɜːrɡləri/.
Robbery definition:
Robbery is the act of taking property unlawfully from a person or place by force or threat of force.
Robbery parts of speech:
- Noun: The police are investigating a series of street robberies that occurred last night.
Robbery pronunciation:
Robbery is pronounced as /ˈrɒbəri/.
Burglary vs. Robbery in a nutshell
Understanding the distinction between burglary and robbery is crucial when discussing, reporting, or studying crimes. Burglary revolves around the illegal entry with the intent to commit a crime within the premises, while robbery encompasses the element of force or threat when taking property directly from a person. Both are serious offenses with distinct legal implications. Knowing the differences ensures accurate communication in legal contexts and general discussions about crime.
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