Meanings of 盗窃
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Podcast: 盗窃
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AI Study Notes for 盗窃
盗取 (dàoqǔ) refers to the act of stealing but is often used in contexts involving the theft of intangible items, such as data or intellectual property, while 盗窃 (dàoqiè) is more commonly associated with physical theft.
When using 盗窃, be aware that it is more formal and should be used in legal or serious discussions. Common mistakes include using informal language when discussing theft in casual conversation. Remember that the tone is important; ensure you pronounce both characters with the correct fourth tone.
As an HSK 6 level word, 盗窃 connects with other legal and moral vocabulary, such as 犯罪 (fànzuì, to commit a crime) and 罪 (zuì, crime). Focus on the context in which you might encounter this term, such as in news articles or legal discussions.
Learners often confuse 盗窃 with the more general term 偷 (tōu). For example, saying '我盗窃了一个苹果' (Wǒ dào qièle yīgè píngguǒ) is incorrect because it trivializes the act; instead, use '我偷了一个苹果' (Wǒ tōule yīgè píngguǒ) for casual theft.
Pronunciation of 盗窃
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Component Characters
How to say to steal in Chinese
“to steal” in Chinese is盗窃
盗窃 (dào qiè) refers to the act of stealing or theft. It is commonly used in legal and formal contexts, emphasizing the criminal nature of the act. The term carries a serious connotation and is often associated with legal consequences.
When to use 盗窃
When using 盗窃, be aware that it is more formal and should be used in legal or serious discussions. Common mistakes include using informal language when discussing theft in casual conversation. Remember that the tone is important; ensure you pronounce both characters with the correct fourth tone.
盗窃 or something close to it
盗取 (dàoqǔ) refers to the act of stealing but is often used in contexts involving the theft of intangible items, such as data or intellectual property, while 盗窃 (dàoqiè) is more commonly associated with physical theft.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse 盗窃 with the more general term 偷 (tōu). For example, saying '我盗窃了一个苹果' (Wǒ dào qièle yīgè píngguǒ) is incorrect because it trivializes the act; instead, use '我偷了一个苹果' (Wǒ tōule yīgè píngguǒ) for casual theft.
Write 盗窃
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Grammar Patterns of 盗窃
盗窃 functions as a verb — the action or state of the sentence. The Chinese order is Subject + Verb + Object (我吃饭). Negate it with 不 (habitual / future) or 没(有) (completed action). Add aspect markers like 了, 过, 着 directly after the verb. The example sentences below show it in action, with practice buttons (Listen, Practice Writing, Practice Speaking) on every line.
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把____艺术品看作是一种绅士犯罪的观念已经过时了。
The image of art theft as a gentleman's crime is outdated.
Example Sentences for 盗窃 (7)
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Cultural Notes for 盗窃
While stealing is condemned in both cultures, Western societies may focus more on rehabilitation for offenders, whereas Chinese culture often emphasizes strict punishment.
Frequently Asked Questions about 盗窃
You can say, 他因为盗窃被捕了 (Tā yīnwèi dào qiè bèi bǔle), meaning 'He was arrested for theft.'
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