Pilfer vs Pillage: When To Use Each One In Writing?

Are you confused about the difference between pilfer and pillage? You’re not alone. These two words are often used interchangeably, but they actually have distinct meanings. In this article, we’ll explore the differences between pilfer and pillage and when to use each one.

Let’s clarify which of the two words is the proper one to use. While both words refer to stealing, pilfer is the more appropriate term for small-scale theft, while pillage is used for larger-scale theft or destruction during a war or conflict.

Pilfer means to steal something small or of little value, often in a sneaky or secretive way. It can also refer to stealing from one’s workplace or employer. For example, a cashier who takes a few dollars from the cash register every day is pilfering.

Pillage, on the other hand, refers to the act of stealing or destroying property on a larger scale, often during a war or conflict. It can also refer to the act of looting or plundering a city or town. For example, an invading army that burns down buildings and steals valuable items is pillaging.

Now that we’ve established the difference between pilfer and pillage, let’s dive deeper into each word and explore their origins, synonyms, and usage in different contexts.

Define Pilfer

Pilfer refers to the act of stealing small or petty things, typically without using force or violence. It is a subtle form of theft that involves taking something without permission or right, especially in small quantities or repeatedly over time. Pilfering can occur in various settings, such as in the workplace, at home, or in public places, and can involve items such as office supplies, food, money, or personal belongings. Pilfering is often done surreptitiously, with the intention of not being caught or detected.

Define Pillage

Pillage, on the other hand, is a more violent and destructive form of theft that involves using force or violence to take property, usually during a time of war or conflict. It is the act of looting or plundering a town, city, or other settlement, often with the aim of causing damage and destruction. Pillaging can involve stealing valuable items, destroying buildings and infrastructure, and harming or killing people. It is a form of aggression that is often associated with military conquest or invasion, and is considered a war crime under international law.

How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence

When it comes to using words correctly, it can be tricky to know the difference between similar terms. This is especially true for words that have similar meanings, like pilfer and pillage. Here’s a guide on how to use these words in a sentence.

How To Use Pilfer In A Sentence

Pilfer is a verb that means to steal something, typically of little value or in small quantities. Here are some examples of how to use pilfer in a sentence:

• He was caught pilfering office supplies from the company’s storage room.
• The thief pilfered a few pieces of jewelry from the store’s display case.
• She was accused of pilfering money from her roommate’s purse.

As you can see, pilfer is often used to describe small thefts or stealing in a sneaky or secretive way. It is not typically used to describe large-scale theft or looting.

How To Use Pillage In A Sentence

Pillage is a verb that means to rob or loot a place, typically in a time of war or unrest. Here are some examples of how to use pillage in a sentence:

• The invading army pillaged the town, taking everything of value and burning what was left.
• The Vikings were notorious for pillaging coastal villages and towns.
• During the riots, the mob pillaged stores and set fire to buildings.

As you can see, pillage is often used to describe large-scale theft or looting, typically in a violent or destructive manner. It is not typically used to describe small-scale theft or stealing in a sneaky or secretive way.

More Examples Of Pilfer & Pillage Used In Sentences

In order to better understand the differences between pilfer and pillage, it can be helpful to see these words used in context. Below are several examples of how each word can be used in a sentence.

Examples Of Using Pilfer In A Sentence

• The employee was caught pilfering office supplies from the storage room.
• The thief pilfered several valuable items from the antique store.
• She was accused of pilfering money from her employer’s cash register.
• The pickpocket was skilled at pilfering wallets and purses in crowded areas.
• The maid was fired for pilfering jewelry from the guest rooms.
• The teenager was caught pilfering candy from the convenience store.
• The art collector was devastated to discover that someone had pilfered a valuable painting from his home.
• The suspect was arrested for pilfering goods from a local department store.
• The security guard was vigilant in preventing employees from pilfering inventory from the warehouse.
• The homeless man was caught pilfering food from a local grocery store.

Examples Of Using Pillage In A Sentence

• The invading army pillaged the town, taking everything of value.
• The Vikings were notorious for pillaging coastal villages throughout Europe.
• The rebels pillaged the government building, destroying files and equipment.
• The conquering army pillaged the palace, taking jewels, gold, and other treasures.
• The pirates pillaged the merchant ship, stealing cargo and taking hostages.
• The rioters pillaged the stores, breaking windows and stealing merchandise.
• The bandits pillaged the village, burning homes and stealing livestock.
• The barbarians pillaged the city, leaving destruction and chaos in their wake.
• The marauders pillaged the countryside, taking whatever they could find.
• The looters pillaged the museum, stealing priceless artifacts and artwork.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

When it comes to using the words “pilfer” and “pillage,” many people tend to interchange them, which can lead to confusion and miscommunication. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

Mistake #1: Using “Pilfer” And “Pillage” Interchangeably

Although both words refer to stealing or taking something without permission, they have different connotations and are used in different contexts. “Pilfer” typically refers to stealing small items or amounts, while “pillage” suggests a more violent and destructive act of looting.

For example, if someone takes a few pens from your desk without asking, you could say they “pilfered” them. However, if a group of rioters breaks into a store and takes everything in sight, you would use “pillage” to describe their actions.

Mistake #2: Using “Pilfer” As A Synonym For “Steal”

While “pilfer” does mean to steal, it specifically refers to stealing in small amounts or bit by bit. Using it to describe any act of theft can be misleading and confusing. It’s important to use the right word to accurately convey the nature and severity of the theft.

For instance, saying that someone “pilfered” a car would be incorrect, as it implies that they took it apart piece by piece. In this case, “stole” would be a more appropriate word.

Tips To Avoid These Mistakes

• Pay attention to the context and use the appropriate word for the situation.
• Look up the definitions of “pilfer” and “pillage” to understand their nuances and connotations.
• Use synonyms or related words if you’re not sure which one to use.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can communicate more effectively and avoid confusion or misunderstandings.

Context Matters

When it comes to choosing between the words “pilfer” and “pillage,” context is key. While both words refer to stealing or taking something without permission, they carry different connotations and are often used in different contexts.

Examples Of Different Contexts

Here are some examples of different contexts in which the choice between “pilfer” and “pillage” might change:

Context	Explanation	Example Sentence
Everyday Theft	When referring to small-scale theft or stealing from a person or business without causing significant damage or harm.	He was caught trying to pilfer a candy bar from the convenience store.
War or Conflict	When referring to large-scale theft or looting in the context of war or conflict.	The invading army pillaged the city, taking everything of value.
Corporate Theft	When referring to stealing or taking something without permission in a business or corporate context.	The CEO was accused of pilfering company funds for personal use.

As these examples show, the choice between “pilfer” and “pillage” can depend on the severity and scale of the theft, as well as the context in which it takes place.

Exceptions To The Rules

While the usage of pilfer and pillage seems to be pretty straightforward, there are some exceptions where the rules might not apply. In this section, we will identify these exceptions and offer explanations and examples for each case.

1. Historical Context

In certain historical contexts, the usage of pilfer and pillage might differ from their current definitions. For example, during the Viking Age, pillage referred to the act of raiding and looting a town or village during a military campaign. In this context, pillage was not necessarily an act of theft but rather a tactic used in warfare.

Similarly, in the 18th century, pilfering was used to describe the act of stealing small items, such as food or clothing, by poor people who were struggling to survive. In this context, pilfering was not considered a serious crime and was often overlooked by authorities.

2. Regional Differences

Regional differences can also affect the usage of pilfer and pillage. For example, in British English, pilfer is more commonly used than pillage, whereas in American English, pillage is more commonly used than pilfer. Additionally, in some regions, such as the Caribbean, the word pilfer is often used to describe the act of stealing livestock or crops.

3. Legal Terminology

In legal terminology, the usage of pilfer and pillage might also differ from their common definitions. For example, in some jurisdictions, pilfering refers to the act of stealing small items, whereas theft refers to the act of stealing larger items or more valuable items. In this context, pilfering is considered a lesser offense than theft.

Similarly, in international law, pillage is defined as the act of taking property from a defeated enemy during wartime. In this context, pillage is considered a war crime and is punishable by international tribunals.

4. Figurative Usage

Finally, both pilfer and pillage can be used in a figurative sense to describe actions that are not related to theft or looting. For example, one might say that a company is pilfering profits if it is engaging in unethical business practices, or that a politician is pillaging the country if they are engaging in corrupt activities.

Overall, while the rules for using pilfer and pillage are generally straightforward, there are some exceptions where the usage might differ based on historical context, regional differences, legal terminology, or figurative usage.

Practice Exercises

Understanding the nuances between pilfer and pillage can be tricky, but with practice, it can become second nature. Here are some practice exercises to help you improve your understanding and use of these words in sentences:

Exercise 1

Fill in the blank with either pilfer or pillage:

1. The thieves attempted to _____ the small convenience store, but were caught by the police.
2. He was caught trying to _____ a few coins from his roommate’s dresser.
3. The barbarians would _____ entire villages, leaving nothing behind.
4. The employee was fired for attempting to _____ office supplies from the company.

Answer key:

1. pillage
2. pilfer
3. pillage
4. pilfer

Exercise 2

Write a sentence using pilfer and a sentence using pillage:

• Pilfer: The pickpocket managed to pilfer my wallet without me noticing.
• Pillage: The invading army pillaged the city, leaving nothing but destruction in their wake.

Exercise 3

Match the definitions with the correct word:

Definition	Word
To steal small items or amounts, often in a sneaky way	Pilfer
To rob a place or people of goods or valuables, often with violence or force	Pillage

Answer key:

Definition	Word
To steal small items or amounts, often in a sneaky way	Pilfer
To rob a place or people of goods or valuables, often with violence or force	Pillage

By practicing with these exercises, you’ll be able to confidently use pilfer and pillage in your writing and speech.

Conclusion

After exploring the differences between pilfer and pillage, it is clear that these two words have distinct meanings and should not be used interchangeably. While pilfering refers to stealing small items, often in a sneaky or secretive manner, pillaging involves more violent and destructive behavior, typically associated with war or looting.

It is important to use language precisely, especially when it comes to legal or ethical matters. Misusing words like pilfer and pillage can have serious consequences and lead to misunderstandings.

Key Takeaways:

• Pilfering involves stealing small items in a sneaky or secretive manner.
• Pillaging involves more violent and destructive behavior, typically associated with war or looting.
• Using language precisely is important, especially in legal or ethical matters.

As language is constantly evolving, it is crucial to continue learning and improving our grammar and language use. By doing so, we can communicate more effectively and avoid misunderstandings.

So, let’s keep exploring and expanding our knowledge of language!