Confusing words explained
“burglary” vs “robbery” — What’s the Difference?
Robbery uses force/threat against person; burglary is breaking into building.
Key takeaway
Quick Difference: burglary vs robbery
Robbery uses force/threat against person; burglary is breaking into building.
burglary vs robbery Side-by-Side Comparison
Meaning of burglary
The crime of illegally entering a building with intent to steal or commit another crime.
When someone breaks into a house or building to steal things or commit a crime. It's different from robbery, which uses force against a person.
Use 'burglary' for break-ins to steal; use 'robbery' when a victim is present.
- There was a burglary at the house last night.
- The homeowner installed new locks after the burglary.
Meaning of robbery
the crime of taking money or property from a person using force or threats
Taking something valuable from someone by using violence or threats. This is different from theft, which doesn't involve force.
Use with 'a' in singular. Plural is 'robberies'. Often paired with 'armed' or location.
- He reported a robbery at the bank yesterday.
- The robbery occurred at midnight in a quiet area of town.
Usage Notes & Nuance
burglary: Burglary is a serious crime in most countries. Insurance often covers burglary but not theft by employees or invited guests.
robbery: In English law, robbery requires force or threat. Without force, it's theft or burglary.
How to Remember the Difference
Burglary breaks into Buildings (no one home); robbery uses force on a person.
Common Mistakes with burglary and robbery
Mistake with burglary
Correct: He committed a burglary by breaking into the house.
Mistake with burglary
Correct: The burglar stole my laptop.
Mistake with robbery
Correct: He committed a burglary of my apartment.
Mistake with robbery
Correct: robbery involves force against a person; burglary involves breaking into a place
Practice Quiz: burglary or robbery?
Choose the word that best completes each real example sentence.
Question 1
There was a _____ at the house last night.
Question 2
The homeowner installed new locks after the _____.
Question 3
_____ charges carry severe penalties including imprisonment.
Pick at least one answer, then press Check answers to see how you did.
You scored 0 out of 3
Frequently Asked Questions About burglary vs robbery
What’s the difference between “burglary” and “robbery”?
Robbery uses force/threat against person; burglary is breaking into building.
When should I use “burglary”?
Use 'burglary' for break-ins to steal; use 'robbery' when a victim is present.
When should I use “robbery”?
Use with 'a' in singular. Plural is 'robberies'. Often paired with 'armed' or location.
How can I remember burglary vs robbery?
Burglary breaks into Buildings (no one home); robbery uses force on a person.
Is it “burglary” or “robbery” in example sentences?
Use the quiz above to test the pair with real example sentences from the available word data.