“Robbery” vs. “Burglary”

I’ve noticed recently that some of our commenters have been using “robbed” instead of “burglarized” to describe a theft. There is a careful distinction here that should be pointed out.


First, the definitions from dictionary.com:

Robbery
“The felonious taking of the property of another from his or her person or in his or her immediate presence, against his or her will, by violence or intimidation.”

Burglary
“The felony of breaking into and entering the house of another at night with intent to steal, extended by statute to cover the breaking into and entering of any of various buildings, by night or day.”

The big difference? A robbery involves taking property “against” the victim’s “will, by violence or intimidation.” A burglary doesn’t involve the victim, just his property.

Just a little FYI.

2 thoughts on ““Robbery” vs. “Burglary”

  1. Thank you. I prefer careful wording myself. I notice the use of the word “robbed” to intend the sense of being cheated or scammed, even in a non financial deal, such as a football game or an election.

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