robbery - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
robbery Word Meanings
- the act of taking property unlawfully from a person
- a crime involving theft with violence or threat
- a figurative sense of taking something by force or coercion
robbery Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
robbery Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈrɒb.ər.i/
US
/ˈrɑː.bɚ.i/
robbery Word Etymology
Root decomposition: ro- (to seize) + -bery (act of). Historical origin: Latin 'roba' (booty) → Old French 'rober' → English 'robbery'. Memory image: Imagine a masked bandit snatching a bag of money from an innocent passerby, highlighting the forceful nature of the act.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I grip the door knob and shift my weight, a small move that makes the room feel closer and louder. The air tightens as I hold my breath and keep my gaze steady. Then a tense scene unfolds—a robbery in progress—and I adjust my posture to stay calm and ready. The word robbery stops being just a label and becomes the rhythm of fear, control, and quick choice.
Real Context
Robbery is a serious crime that centers on taking property directly from a person using force, intimidation, or threats. It differs from theft or burglary because the act targets a person and relies on the fear of harm, not just the property alone. In common usage, you might hear about a street robbery at night, a bank robbery, or an armed robbery where the offender carries a weapon. Knowledge of the word helps learners distinguish it from nonviolent theft and from receiving stolen goods. In legal contexts, you may encounter phrases such as robbery with aggravating circumstances or robbery while armed. Visualizing a masked thief grabbing a bag can reinforce the sense of aggression and immediacy that defines robbery.
Usage Reminders
- Robbery involves taking from a person, often with force or threat.
- Use robber for the person and robbery for the act.
- It is more violent or urgent than ordinary theft.
- Look for collocations like armed robbery or robbery suspect.
- Avoid using robbery for nonviolent property loss.
Common Misconceptions
- Robbery is the same as theft.
- The word only refers to bank robberies.
- Robbery always involves a weapon.
- Robbery is a fictional or hypothetical term.
- People confuse robber (the person) with robbery (the act).
Thinking Differences
Robbery emphasizes direct confrontation with a person and the use of force or threats, which is a distinct emphasis in English and often requires learners to highlight the victim in the scenario rather than just the stolen item.
Learning Tips
- Notice the violence or threat element in robbery, not just taking an object.
- Use robbery with adjectives like armed to specify the danger.
- Remember robber is the person; robbery is the act.
- Distinguish robbery from theft and burglary in legal contexts.
- Practice sentences that describe victims and threats, not only the stolen property.
- Iconize a quick mental image of a masked offender to recall immediacy.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the definition of the word 'robbery'?
A.An event at a festival
B.A crime involving theft
C.A type of dance
D.A method of communication
Step 2: Usage
Select the correct usage of the word 'robbery' in a sentence.
A.The artwork showcased was a robbery of color and creativity.
B.The bank experienced a robbery early in the morning.
C.Her kindness felt like a robbery of my time.
D.The recovery from her injury was a robbery of emotional strength.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'robbery'?
A.Construction
B.Theft
C.Celebration
D.Transportation
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'robbery'?
A.Disruption
B.Confusion
C.Gift
D.Burden
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario where something was stolen?
A.Many students volunteered at the homeless shelter last weekend.
B.The community gathered to celebrate the successful bakery opening.
C.A local shop owner reported a significant robbery last night.
D.A family enjoyed a picnic at the park.
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