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B1 Noun (Plural) #46 最常用 20分钟阅读

thieves

前46

开始练习例句笔记与提示 thieves 30秒了解

解析 thieves in your Level:

At the A1 level, you should know that 'thieves' is the plural of 'thief'. A thief is a person who takes things that do not belong to them. For example, if someone takes your bag when you are not looking, they are a thief. If there are two or more people doing this, they are 'thieves'. It is important to remember the spelling change from 'f' to 'ves'. You will often hear this word in simple stories or see it on warning signs in public places like parks or buses. The word is usually associated with bad actions and people who are not honest. You can use it in simple sentences like 'The thieves took the money' or 'Watch out for thieves'. Learning this word helps you talk about basic problems and understand simple warnings when you travel.

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At the A2 level, you can start using 'thieves' in more descriptive sentences. You understand that 'thieves' are people who steal property secretly. You might use adjectives to describe them, such as 'bad thieves' or 'fast thieves'. You also learn that there are different kinds of thieves, like those who steal from shops (shoplifters) or those who steal from pockets (pickpockets). You can talk about what thieves do using past tenses, like 'The thieves stole my bicycle yesterday'. You also begin to see the word in news headlines or short stories. Understanding 'thieves' at this level means you can explain a simple crime and understand basic safety advice. You should also be careful with the spelling, making sure not to write 'thiefs'.

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At the B1 level, you should have a solid grasp of 'thieves' and its usage. You understand the irregular pluralization rule and can use the word confidently in various tenses and sentence structures. You know the difference between 'thieves', 'robbers', and 'burglars', and you can choose the right word for the situation. You are also familiar with common phrases and idioms, such as 'thick as thieves' or 'honor among thieves'. You can follow news reports about theft and understand the details, such as how the thieves escaped or what they stole. At this level, you can also use 'thieves' metaphorically, like in the phrase 'thieves of time'. You are able to participate in discussions about crime and security, using 'thieves' as a key part of your vocabulary.

At the B2 level, you use 'thieves' with a high degree of precision. You are aware of the subtle connotations of the word and its synonyms. You can use it in formal contexts, such as writing a report or an essay about crime rates. You understand more complex collocations, like 'notorious thieves', 'petty thieves', or 'identity thieves'. You can also discuss the social and psychological aspects of why people become thieves. Your understanding of the word includes its historical and cultural references, such as famous thieves in literature or history. You are comfortable using the possessive form 'thieves'' correctly in your writing. At this level, 'thieves' is a versatile tool in your vocabulary that you can use to express complex ideas about property, honesty, and the law.

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At the C1 level, your understanding of 'thieves' is very sophisticated. You can use the word and its many synonyms (like 'larcenists', 'pilferers', or 'marauders') to convey exact shades of meaning. You are familiar with the legal nuances of theft and how 'thieves' are categorized in different jurisdictions. You can analyze the portrayal of thieves in media and literature, discussing themes of morality and social justice. You use the word in complex metaphorical ways and understand its role in advanced idioms and proverbs. Your writing and speaking are natural and precise, and you can easily switch between formal and informal registers when discussing thieves. You are also aware of the etymology of the word and how it has evolved over time.

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At the C2 level, you have a masterly command of the word 'thieves'. You can use it with total fluency and precision in any context, from highly technical legal discussions to creative literary works. You understand the most obscure synonyms and archaic forms of the word. You can use 'thieves' to create subtle irony, humor, or dramatic effect in your communication. Your knowledge of the word includes a deep understanding of its cultural, historical, and linguistic background across the English-speaking world. You can effortlessly integrate the word into complex rhetorical structures and use it to explore profound philosophical questions about ownership and ethics. At this level, 'thieves' is not just a word, but a concept that you can manipulate with great skill and nuance.

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开始练习例句笔记与提示

thieves 30秒了解

Thieves is the plural form of thief, referring to people who steal property secretly and without permission from the rightful owners.
The word follows an irregular pluralization rule where the final 'f' changes to 'ves', which is a key point for English learners.
It is a general term that covers various types of stealing, including shoplifting and burglary, but is distinct from 'robbers' who use force.
Commonly used in news, literature, and everyday warnings, 'thieves' is an essential word for discussing crime, security, and honesty in English.

The word thieves is the plural form of the noun 'thief'. It refers to a group of individuals who engage in the act of stealing property or assets from others without their consent. Unlike 'robbers', who typically use force or the threat of violence, thieves often operate with stealth, cunning, and secrecy. The term is foundational in the English language for discussing criminal activity involving the unauthorized taking of goods. Understanding the word requires recognizing its irregular pluralization, where the terminal 'f' of the singular 'thief' transforms into 'ves'. This linguistic pattern is common in Old English-derived words like 'leaf' to 'leaves' or 'wife' to 'wives'. People use this word in a variety of contexts, ranging from legal proceedings and police reports to casual conversations about home security or historical accounts of famous outlaws. In a broader sense, 'thieves' can also be used metaphorically to describe anything that takes away something valuable, such as 'thieves of time' referring to distractions that steal one's productivity. The social weight of the word carries connotations of dishonesty, betrayal of trust, and a violation of the social contract regarding private property. In literature, thieves are often portrayed as either villainous antagonists or charismatic anti-heroes, such as the band of thieves in the tales of Ali Baba or the complex characters in modern heist films. The word is universally understood across English-speaking cultures as a label for those who profit from the loss of others through deceptive means.

Plurality and Form: The transition from 'thief' to 'thieves' is an essential grammatical rule for B1 learners to master, representing the irregular 'f' to 'ves' shift.

The thieves managed to bypass the alarm system and escape with the diamonds before the police arrived.

In historical contexts, the word 'thieves' appears frequently in religious and legal texts. For example, the biblical reference to 'a den of thieves' has become a common idiom to describe a place or organization filled with corrupt or dishonest people. In the Middle Ages, thieves were often dealt with through harsh public punishments, reflecting the high value placed on communal trust and the severity with which its breach was viewed. Today, the term has evolved to include 'cyber-thieves'—individuals who steal digital data, identities, or cryptocurrency. This modern application shows the word's flexibility in adapting to new forms of property and crime. When using the word, it is important to distinguish between different types of thieves: shoplifters steal from stores, pickpockets steal from people's clothing, and burglars break into buildings to steal. Each of these groups falls under the umbrella of 'thieves', but the specific term used can provide more detail about the nature of the crime. The word is also central to many children's games and stories, such as 'Cops and Robbers' (often interchangeable with thieves) or the 'Forty Thieves' from the Arabian Nights. This early exposure helps learners internalize the word's meaning and its association with the concepts of 'right' and 'wrong'. Furthermore, the word 'thieves' is often paired with adjectives to specify the scale of the crime, such as 'petty thieves' for those who steal small items, or 'notorious thieves' for those famous for large-scale heists. This descriptive layering allows for precise communication in both formal and informal English.

History is full of stories about legendary thieves who stole from the rich to give to the poor.

Social Context: Calling a group 'thieves' is a serious accusation that implies a lack of integrity and a criminal nature.

The linguistic evolution of 'thieves' is also worth noting. The word traces back to the Proto-Germanic 'theubaz', which has cognates in many other Germanic languages, such as the German 'Dieb' and Dutch 'dief'. This long history underscores the fundamental nature of the concept in human society—the protection of property and the identification of those who violate it. In modern English, 'thieves' is a high-frequency word because property crime remains a common topic in news media and entertainment. Whether it is a report on a local break-in or a Hollywood blockbuster about a group of professional thieves planning a casino heist, the word is indispensable. It also appears in various collective nouns and phrases, such as 'a pack of thieves' or 'honor among thieves', the latter suggesting that even criminals have a code of conduct among themselves. This phrase is particularly interesting as it explores the internal ethics of a group generally defined by their lack of ethics. By studying 'thieves', learners gain insight into English grammar (irregular plurals), vocabulary (synonyms and specific crime types), and cultural values (the importance of property and honesty). It is a word that bridges the gap between basic survival concepts and complex legal and moral frameworks.

The security cameras captured the thieves as they entered the warehouse through the roof.

They say there is no honor among thieves, but they certainly worked well together during the heist.

Metaphorical Usage: The term can describe abstract concepts, like 'procrastination is the thief of time', where the plural 'thieves' might describe multiple distractions.

The thieves of joy are often comparison and regret.

Using the word thieves correctly involves understanding its role as a plural count noun and its specific grammatical requirements. Because it is the plural of 'thief', it always refers to more than one person. When constructing sentences, you must ensure that the accompanying verbs and pronouns are also in the plural form. For example, you would say 'The thieves *were* caught' rather than 'The thieves *was* caught'. This sounds basic, but in the heat of conversation, learners sometimes forget to match the verb to the plural subject. Additionally, the word 'thieves' often functions as the subject of a sentence, performing an action (e.g., 'The thieves stole the car'), or as the object of a verb or preposition (e.g., 'The police are looking for the thieves'). It is also common to see 'thieves' modified by adjectives that provide more context about their skill level, their motives, or the scale of their crimes. Adjectives like 'skilled', 'clumsy', 'desperate', or 'professional' are frequently paired with 'thieves' to paint a clearer picture for the reader or listener. Furthermore, 'thieves' is often used in the possessive form, 'thieves'', which requires placing the apostrophe after the 's'. For instance, 'The thieves' hideout was discovered by the authorities'. This is a common point of confusion for students, as they might mistakenly write 'thief's' (singular possessive) or 'thieves's' (incorrect plural possessive).

Subject-Verb Agreement: Always use plural verbs with 'thieves'. Example: 'The thieves have escaped' (not 'has escaped').

Several thieves were apprehended after the silent alarm alerted the security company.

In more complex sentence structures, 'thieves' can be part of relative clauses or passive constructions. In a relative clause, you might say, 'The thieves who broke into the gallery were never found', where 'who broke into the gallery' provides specific information about which thieves are being discussed. In passive voice, the focus shifts from the thieves to the action or the victim: 'The stolen goods were recovered from the thieves by the local task force'. This usage is common in formal reporting and journalism. Another important aspect of using 'thieves' is understanding its collocations—words that are naturally used together with it. Verbs like 'catch', 'arrest', 'identify', 'pursue', and 'deter' are frequently used in relation to thieves. For example, 'New security measures were installed to deter thieves from targeting the neighborhood'. Similarly, 'thieves' is often found in prepositional phrases like 'among thieves' or 'by thieves'. Understanding these patterns helps learners produce more natural-sounding English. It is also worth noting that 'thieves' can be used in the context of compound nouns, such as 'car thieves', 'identity thieves', or 'cattle thieves', which specify the target of the theft. These compounds are very common in modern English and are essential for precise communication about different types of crime.

The thieves' plan was foiled when one of them accidentally tripped a motion sensor.

Compound Nouns: Common compounds include 'identity thieves', 'car thieves', and 'jewel thieves'.

When writing or speaking about thieves, it is also useful to consider the register or tone. In a formal legal context, you might use more specific terms like 'larcenists' or 'perpetrators', but 'thieves' remains the most versatile and widely understood term for general use. In creative writing, you might use more evocative language to describe thieves, such as 'shadowy figures' or 'marauders', depending on the setting. However, for everyday communication, 'thieves' is the standard choice. It is also important to be aware of the difference between 'thieves' and 'robbers' in sentence construction. While they are often used interchangeably in casual speech, a sentence like 'The thieves robbed the bank' is technically slightly redundant or imprecise, as 'robbers' is the more accurate term for those who take from a person or place using force. A more precise sentence would be 'The thieves stole the money from the safe while the building was empty'. This distinction helps learners achieve a higher level of English proficiency. Finally, practice using 'thieves' in different tenses. For example, 'The thieves have been stealing from this area for months' (present perfect continuous) or 'The thieves will likely target homes with no visible security' (future simple). Mastering these variations ensures that you can discuss the topic of theft accurately in any temporal context.

The police warned residents that thieves often look for unlocked windows during the summer months.

Despite the high security, the thieves managed to make off with several priceless paintings.

Passive Voice Example: 'The suspects were identified as the thieves who had been operating in the downtown area.'

Are those the thieves the news was talking about earlier today?

The word thieves is a staple of news broadcasts, crime dramas, and everyday warnings. If you turn on the evening news, you are likely to hear it in reports about local crime. News anchors might say, 'Police are searching for a group of thieves who targeted several high-end boutiques last night.' In this context, the word is used to objectively describe individuals suspected of property crime. You will also encounter it frequently in the titles and plots of movies and books. The 'heist' genre is entirely built around the actions of thieves. Films like 'Ocean's Eleven' or 'The Italian Job' feature groups of professional thieves as their protagonists, often portraying them as highly skilled and even likable. This cultural fascination with thieves means the word is often heard in entertainment media, where it can carry a sense of excitement or intrigue. In literature, from the classic 'Oliver Twist' with its gang of young thieves led by Fagin, to modern fantasy novels where 'thieves' guilds' are a common trope, the word is used to build worlds and develop characters. This widespread use in storytelling helps cement the word in the public consciousness, making it a key part of the English vocabulary for describing both real-world events and fictional narratives.

News Media: Frequently used in crime reporting to describe suspects in burglary, shoplifting, or larceny cases.

'The thieves are believed to have fled the scene in a dark blue sedan,' the reporter stated.

In everyday life, you might hear the word 'thieves' in more mundane but important situations. For instance, signs in public places often warn, 'Thieves operate in this area; please keep your belongings with you at all times.' These warnings are common in tourist hotspots, airports, and public transportation hubs. Hearing or seeing the word in this context serves as a practical reminder to be vigilant. You might also hear it in casual conversation when someone is sharing a personal experience or a story they heard. 'Did you hear about the thieves who stole all the copper piping from the construction site?' is a typical way the word might come up in a chat between neighbors or colleagues. In the workplace, 'thieves' might be mentioned in discussions about security or loss prevention. For example, a manager might say, 'We need to be more careful about checking IDs to keep out potential thieves.' This demonstrates how the word is used across different levels of formality and in various social settings. Furthermore, with the rise of technology, the term 'identity thieves' has become a common part of the modern lexicon. You will hear this in advertisements for security software, in bank warnings about fraud, and in discussions about online safety. This specific use of 'thieves' highlights how the word continues to be relevant in the digital age.

Warning: Thieves and pickpockets are known to frequent this crowded market.

Public Warnings: Commonly seen on signage in high-traffic areas to alert people to the risk of theft.

Another place you will frequently encounter 'thieves' is in legal and academic discussions about criminology and sociology. Law students and professionals use the term when discussing the elements of theft and the classification of different types of offenders. In this context, 'thieves' is a technical term used to categorize individuals based on their actions. Similarly, in history classes, you might learn about 'highwaymen' or 'pirates', both of whom are types of thieves. These historical examples provide a broader perspective on how the concept of theft and the role of thieves have changed over time. Even in sports, the word is sometimes used metaphorically. A player who is very good at stealing the ball from the opposing team might be called one of the 'best thieves in the league'. This playful use of the word shows its versatility and how its core meaning of 'taking something' can be applied in non-criminal contexts. Whether it's in a serious news report, a thrilling movie, a practical warning sign, or a metaphorical sports commentary, the word 'thieves' is a constant presence in the English language, reflecting its importance in describing human behavior and social interactions.

The documentary explored the lives of professional thieves and the methods they use to evade capture.

In the world of cybersecurity, hackers are often referred to as digital thieves.

Metaphorical Sports Use: 'He is known as one of the greatest thieves in basketball history because of his many steals.'

The thieves of the night moved silently through the shadows of the alleyway.

One of the most frequent mistakes English learners make with the word thieves is its spelling. Because the singular is 'thief', many naturally assume the plural should be 'thiefs'. However, 'thieves' follows the irregular pluralization rule where words ending in '-f' or '-fe' change to '-ves'. This is a common pattern in English (e.g., leaf/leaves, wolf/wolves, knife/knives), but it still trips up many students. Another common spelling error is the placement of the 'i' and 'e'. The rule 'i before e except after c' applies here, so it is 'thieves', not 'theives'. Misplacing these letters is a very common mistake even for native speakers. Beyond spelling, learners often confuse 'thieves' with 'robbers' or 'burglars'. While they all involve stealing, they are not strictly interchangeable in all contexts. As mentioned before, 'robbers' use force or threats, while 'thieves' is a more general term that often implies stealth. 'Burglars' specifically break into buildings with the intent to commit a crime, usually theft. Using 'thieves' when 'robbers' is more accurate can make a sentence feel slightly off, especially in a legal or journalistic context. For example, 'The thieves held up the bank with guns' is less precise than 'The robbers held up the bank'.

Spelling Error: Thiefs: Incorrect: 'The thiefs were caught.' Correct: 'The thieves were caught.'

Many students write theives by mistake, forgetting the 'i before e' rule.

Another area where mistakes occur is in the use of the possessive form. As a plural noun ending in 's', the possessive of 'thieves' is 'thieves'', with the apostrophe at the end. Learners often mistakenly write 'thief's' (which is singular) or 'thieves's' (which is grammatically incorrect). For example, 'The thieves' getaway car' is the correct way to describe a car belonging to multiple thieves. Misusing the apostrophe can change the meaning of the sentence or simply make it look unprofessional. Additionally, subject-verb agreement is a common pitfall. Since 'thieves' is plural, it must always take a plural verb. Saying 'The thieves is running away' is a clear grammatical error that B1 learners should strive to avoid. It should always be 'The thieves are running away'. This also applies to pronouns; you should use 'they' or 'them' to refer back to thieves, not 'it' or 'him/her' (unless you are talking about a specific individual within the group). For instance, 'The thieves stole the jewels and then *they* disappeared into the night'.

It is a common mistake to say 'The thieves has left,' instead of the correct 'The thieves have left.'

Possessive Confusion: Correct: 'The thieves' tools.' Incorrect: 'The thiefs' tools' or 'The thieves's tools.'

Finally, learners sometimes struggle with the nuance of 'thieves' versus 'theft'. 'Thieves' refers to the people, while 'theft' refers to the act or the crime itself. You cannot say 'The thieves was a serious problem in the city' if you mean the crime of stealing; you should say 'Theft was a serious problem' or 'The presence of thieves was a serious problem'. Conversely, you wouldn't say 'The police arrested the theft', but rather 'The police arrested the thieves'. Distinguishing between the person and the action is crucial for clear communication. Another subtle mistake is using 'thieves' when a more specific term like 'shoplifters' or 'pickpockets' would be more appropriate and descriptive. While 'thieves' is never technically wrong in these cases, using the more specific term shows a higher level of vocabulary and provides more detail. For example, in a retail setting, 'The shoplifters were caught on camera' is more informative than 'The thieves were caught on camera'. By being mindful of these common spelling, grammatical, and contextual mistakes, learners can use the word 'thieves' with greater confidence and accuracy.

Don't confuse the people (thieves) with the crime (theft).

The thieves were planning their next move in a secret location.

Vocabulary Precision: Using 'thieves' is general; using 'pickpockets' or 'burglars' is more precise and advanced.

The thieves were finally caught after a long investigation by the local police.

While thieves is the most common and general term for people who steal, the English language offers many synonyms and related words that can provide more specific meaning or a different tone. Understanding these alternatives is key to enriching your vocabulary and becoming a more effective communicator. One of the most closely related words is 'robbers'. As previously discussed, 'robbers' specifically refers to those who steal using force or the threat of force, often from a person or a business like a bank. 'Burglars' are another specific type of thieves who break into buildings, usually at night, with the intent to steal. 'Shoplifters' are thieves who steal goods from a retail store during business hours. 'Pickpockets' are specialized thieves who steal money or valuables from people's pockets or bags in crowded places, often without the victim noticing. Each of these terms is a sub-category of 'thieves', and using them correctly shows a more nuanced understanding of the language. For example, you would describe someone who stole your wallet on a busy train as a 'pickpocket' rather than just a 'thief'.

Thieves vs. Robbers: Thieves often use stealth; robbers use force or threats. Both are criminals who steal.

The thieves were so quiet that the homeowners didn't wake up until they were long gone.

Other synonyms for 'thieves' include more informal or slang terms. 'Crooks' is a common, slightly informal word for any kind of dishonest person or criminal, including thieves. 'Bandits' often refers to thieves who operate in wild or lawless areas, like the 'highwaymen' of the past or modern-day armed groups in remote regions. 'Marauders' is a more dramatic term for thieves who roam around in search of things to steal, often involving raids or attacks. In a more formal or legal context, you might encounter the term 'larcenists', which comes from the legal term 'larceny' (theft of personal property). 'Pilferers' is a word used for thieves who steal small amounts or items of little value, often over a long period. For example, an employee who occasionally takes office supplies might be called a 'pilferer'. 'Plagiarists' are a very specific type of thieves—they steal other people's ideas or written work and pass them off as their own. While they don't steal physical property, they are still considered 'thieves' in a metaphorical and intellectual sense. Understanding these distinctions allows you to choose the word that best fits the situation you are describing.

The thieves of the digital age are often hackers who steal personal information from the comfort of their homes.

Formal Alternatives: 'Larcenists' and 'perpetrators' are used in legal documents and police reports.

When comparing these words, it's also helpful to look at their antonyms or opposites. The most direct opposite of 'thieves' would be 'victims'—the people from whom things are stolen. Other opposites could include 'owners' or 'proprietors', who rightfully possess the property. In a social sense, 'benefactors' or 'givers' are the opposite of thieves, as they provide things to others rather than taking them. 'Law-abiding citizens' is a broader term for people who do not commit crimes like theft. By understanding both the synonyms and antonyms, you can build a more complete picture of how 'thieves' fits into the English language. For instance, you can create contrast in your writing: 'While the thieves sought to take, the community's benefactors worked to give back what was lost.' This kind of comparison adds depth and clarity to your communication. Whether you are using the general term 'thieves' or a more specific alternative like 'burglars' or 'pilferers', being aware of the options available to you will make your English more precise and expressive. Practice using these different words in sentences to get a feel for their unique connotations and appropriate contexts.

The thieves were eventually caught, and the stolen property was returned to its rightful owners.

In many stories, the thieves are portrayed as clever and resourceful, even if their actions are wrong.

Thieves vs. Pilferers: Pilferers steal small things; thieves can steal anything, including very valuable items.

The thieves had planned the robbery for months, making sure they knew every detail of the security system.

How Formal Is It?

趣味小知识

The irregular plural 'thieves' is one of the few remaining examples in English of a 'f' to 'ves' change that has survived since the Middle Ages. Most other words have become regular over time, but 'thieves' remains a strong part of the language's history.

发音指南

UK /θiːvz/

US /θivz/

The stress is on the only syllable: THIEVES.

押韵词

leaves believes achieves receives grieves sleeves heaves weaves

常见错误

Pronouncing the 'th' as a 't' or 'd' sound.
Using a short 'i' sound instead of a long 'ee' sound.
Ending the word with an 's' sound instead of a voiced 'z' sound.
Failing to pronounce the 'v' clearly.
Confusing the pronunciation with 'theaves' (which is not a common word).

难度评级

阅读 3/5

The word is common, but the irregular plural might be tricky for beginners.

写作 4/5

Spelling 'thieves' correctly (i before e, f to ves) is a common challenge.

口语 3/5

The pronunciation is straightforward once the 'th' and 'v' sounds are mastered.

听力 2/5

The word is usually clear in speech due to its distinct sounds.

接下来学什么

前置知识

steal money person bad take

接下来学习

burglary robbery security investigation evidence

高级

larceny embezzlement kleptomania restitution culpability

需要掌握的语法

Irregular Plurals (f to ves)

Thief becomes thieves; leaf becomes leaves.

Plural Possessives

The thieves' hideout (apostrophe after the 's').

Subject-Verb Agreement

The thieves ARE (not is) running.

Collective Nouns with Thieves

A gang of thieves IS (the gang is singular, even if it contains many thieves).

I before E except after C

ThIeves (follows the rule).

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按水平分级的例句

The thieves took the man's bag.

Les voleurs ont pris le sac de l'homme.

Simple past tense 'took' with plural subject 'thieves'.

Are there thieves in this city?

Y a-t-il des voleurs dans cette ville ?

Question form with 'Are there' and plural 'thieves'.

The thieves are very fast.

Les voleurs sont très rapides.

Plural subject 'thieves' with plural verb 'are'.

I saw two thieves yesterday.

J'ai vu deux voleurs hier.

Plural 'thieves' used with the number 'two'.

The thieves stole a car.

Les voleurs ont volé une voiture.

Simple past tense 'stole' with plural 'thieves'.

Police catch many thieves.

La police attrape beaucoup de voleurs.

Present simple tense for a general fact.

Do not let the thieves in.

Ne laissez pas entrer les voleurs.

Imperative sentence with 'Do not'.

The thieves have my money.

Les voleurs ont mon argent.

Present tense 'have' with plural subject.

The thieves broke the window to get inside.

Les voleurs ont cassé la fenêtre pour entrer.

Use of 'to get inside' to show purpose.

The thieves ran away when they heard the dog.

Les voleurs se sont enfuis quand ils ont entendu le chien.

Complex sentence with 'when' clause.

Many thieves work at night.

Beaucoup de voleurs travaillent la nuit.

Adverbial phrase 'at night'.

The thieves stole several expensive watches.

Les voleurs ont volé plusieurs montres chères.

Use of 'several' and 'expensive' to add detail.

The police are looking for the thieves.

La police recherche les voleurs.

Present continuous 'are looking for'.

These thieves are very clever.

Ces voleurs sont très malins.

Demonstrative adjective 'these' with plural 'thieves'.

The thieves left no fingerprints.

Les voleurs n'ont laissé aucune empreinte digitale.

Negative 'left no' with plural object.

Were the thieves caught by the police?

Les voleurs ont-ils été attrapés par la police ?

Passive voice question in the past tense.

The thieves managed to escape before the alarm went off.

Les voleurs ont réussi à s'échapper avant que l'alarme ne se déclenche.

Use of 'managed to' to show successful action.

They are as thick as thieves and always help each other.

Ils sont comme les deux doigts de la main et s'aident toujours.

Idiomatic expression 'as thick as thieves'.

The thieves' hideout was located in an abandoned warehouse.

La cachette des voleurs était située dans un entrepôt abandonné.

Plural possessive 'thieves''.

Identity thieves can steal your personal information online.

Les voleurs d'identité peuvent voler vos informations personnelles en ligne.

Compound noun 'identity thieves'.

The thieves were eventually identified using CCTV footage.

Les voleurs ont finalement été identifiés grâce aux images de vidéosurveillance.

Passive voice with 'were identified'.

Some people believe there is no honor among thieves.

Certaines personnes pensent qu'il n'y a pas d'honneur chez les voleurs.

Idiomatic expression 'honor among thieves'.

The thieves targeted the house because it had no security system.

Les voleurs ont ciblé la maison parce qu'elle n'avait pas de système de sécurité.

Reason clause starting with 'because'.

The thieves had already fled by the time the police arrived.

Les voleurs s'étaient déjà enfuis au moment où la police est arrivée.

Past perfect 'had already fled' to show an action before another past action.

The thieves meticulously planned the heist for several months.

Les voleurs ont méticuleusement planifié le casse pendant plusieurs mois.

Use of the adverb 'meticulously' to modify the verb.

A notorious gang of thieves has been operating in the city center.

Un gang de voleurs notoire opère dans le centre-ville.

Present perfect continuous 'has been operating' for an ongoing action.

The thieves were apprehended after a high-speed chase through the streets.

Les voleurs ont été appréhendés après une course-poursuite à grande vitesse dans les rues.

Use of the formal verb 'apprehended'.

The thieves' primary objective was the rare diamond collection.

L'objectif principal des voleurs était la collection de diamants rares.

Plural possessive 'thieves'' used as an adjective.

Despite the heavy security, the thieves managed to bypass the lasers.

Malgré la sécurité renforcée, les voleurs ont réussi à contourner les lasers.

Concessive clause starting with 'Despite'.

The thieves were caught red-handed while trying to leave the building.

Les voleurs ont été pris en flagrant délit alors qu'ils essayaient de quitter le bâtiment.

Idiomatic expression 'caught red-handed'.

The thieves had disguised themselves as utility workers to gain entry.

Les voleurs s'étaient déguisés en agents de maintenance pour entrer.

Reflexive verb 'disguised themselves'.

The police are warning the public about a new group of thieves.

La police avertit le public au sujet d'un nouveau groupe de voleurs.

Present continuous 'are warning' with 'about'.

The thieves exploited a vulnerability in the bank's digital security system.

Les voleurs ont exploité une vulnérabilité dans le système de sécurité numérique de la banque.

Use of the sophisticated verb 'exploited'.

The thieves' audacity in targeting such a well-guarded facility was shocking.

L'audace des voleurs en ciblant une installation aussi bien gardée était choquante.

Use of the abstract noun 'audacity'.

The thieves were believed to be part of an international criminal syndicate.

On pensait que les voleurs faisaient partie d'un syndicat du crime international.

Passive construction 'were believed to be'.

The thieves' trail went cold after they switched vehicles in the tunnel.

La trace des voleurs s'est perdue après qu'ils ont changé de véhicule dans le tunnel.

Idiomatic expression 'trail went cold'.

The thieves' sophisticated methods suggested they were highly trained professionals.

Les méthodes sophistiquées des voleurs suggéraient qu'ils étaient des professionnels hautement qualifiés.

Use of 'sophisticated' and 'suggested' for nuance.

The thieves' loot was never recovered, leading to much speculation.

Le butin des voleurs n'a jamais été retrouvé, ce qui a donné lieu à de nombreuses spéculations.

Participle phrase 'leading to much speculation'.

The thieves' actions have sparked a debate about the city's security measures.

Les actions des voleurs ont déclenché un débat sur les mesures de sécurité de la ville.

Present perfect 'have sparked' for a recent action with current relevance.

The thieves' identities remain a mystery to the authorities even now.

L'identité des voleurs reste un mystère pour les autorités, même aujourd'hui.

Use of 'remain' as a linking verb.

The thieves' intricate web of deception was eventually unraveled by the investigators.

Le réseau complexe de tromperie des voleurs a finalement été dénoué par les enquêteurs.

Metaphorical use of 'intricate web' and 'unraveled'.

The thieves' brazen disregard for the law was evident in their daylight robbery.

Le mépris flagrant des voleurs pour la loi était évident dans leur vol en plein jour.

Use of 'brazen disregard' for high-level description.

The thieves' modus operandi was remarkably consistent across all their crimes.

Le mode opératoire des voleurs était remarquablement cohérent dans tous leurs crimes.

Use of the Latin term 'modus operandi'.

The thieves' ability to vanish without a trace baffled even the most seasoned detectives.

La capacité des voleurs à disparaître sans laisser de trace a dérouté même les détectives les plus chevronnés.

Use of 'baffled' and 'seasoned' for precise meaning.

The thieves' plunder was rumored to be hidden in a remote mountain cave.

Le butin des voleurs, selon la rumeur, était caché dans une grotte de montagne isolée.

Use of the formal and slightly archaic word 'plunder'.

The thieves' collusion with certain high-ranking officials was a major scandal.

La collusion des voleurs avec certains hauts fonctionnaires a été un scandale majeur.

Use of 'collusion' to describe a secret agreement.

The thieves' psychological profile suggested a deep-seated resentment toward society.

Le profil psychologique des voleurs suggérait un ressentiment profond envers la société.

Use of 'deep-seated resentment' for psychological depth.

The thieves' legacy lived on in the many legends and folk songs about them.

L'héritage des voleurs a perduré dans les nombreuses légendes et chansons populaires à leur sujet.

Use of 'legacy' to describe long-term impact.

常见搭配

catch thieves

identity thieves

car thieves

petty thieves

notorious thieves

deter thieves

thieves' hideout

skilled thieves

apprehend thieves

thieves' guild

常用短语

Stop, thieves!

— A shout used to alert others that people are stealing and running away.

The shopkeeper ran into the street shouting, 'Stop, thieves!'

A den of thieves

— A place where many dishonest or criminal people gather.

That shady bar is nothing but a den of thieves.

Like a pack of thieves

— Describing a group acting together in a secretive or dishonest way.

They moved through the house like a pack of thieves.

Thieves in the night

— People who act secretly and quietly, usually to do something wrong.

The company's board members acted like thieves in the night when they made the secret deal.

Jewel thieves

— Criminals who specialize in stealing expensive jewelry.

The jewel thieves were famous for their elaborate heists.

Cattle thieves

— People who steal livestock, common in historical or rural contexts.

The farmers formed a group to protect their animals from cattle thieves.

Art thieves

— Criminals who steal valuable paintings and sculptures.

Art thieves often sell their stolen goods on the black market.

Cyber thieves

— Individuals who steal data or money using computers and the internet.

Cyber thieves are a growing threat to global businesses.

The Forty Thieves

— A reference to the famous group of criminals in the story of Ali Baba.

The children's play was based on the story of Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves.

Common thieves

— A term used to describe ordinary criminals without special skills or status.

They were just common thieves, not the masterminds the police expected.

容易混淆的词

thieves vs robbers

Robbers use force; thieves usually use stealth.

thieves vs burglars

Burglars specifically break into buildings.

thieves vs theft

'Theft' is the crime; 'thieves' are the people.

习语与表达

"Thick as thieves"

— Very close friends who share secrets and spend a lot of time together.

Ever since they met in kindergarten, they've been as thick as thieves.

informal

"Honor among thieves"

— The idea that even criminals have a code of conduct and don't betray each other.

He didn't tell the police who his partners were; I guess there really is honor among thieves.

neutral

"Procrastination is the thief of time"

— Delaying things results in wasting time that could have been used productively (often used in the plural 'thieves of time').

You should start your project now; remember that procrastination is the thief of time.

neutral

"To set a thief to catch a thief"

— The best person to catch a criminal is someone who understands how criminals think (can be pluralized).

The government hired former hackers to catch cyber thieves; they set a thief to catch a thief.

neutral

"Thieves' kitchen"

— A place where criminals meet or live (somewhat archaic).

The old docks were known as a thieves' kitchen in the 19th century.

archaic

"Like thieves in the night"

— To do something secretly and quietly so that no one notices.

The developers demolished the historic building like thieves in the night.

neutral

"There is no honor among thieves"

— The opposite of 'honor among thieves', suggesting criminals will always betray each other.

They all turned on each other as soon as the police arrived; there's no honor among thieves.

neutral

"To be a thief of joy"

— Something that takes away happiness (often used in plural 'thieves of joy' like comparison).

Comparison is one of the greatest thieves of joy.

neutral

"Thieves' Latin"

— The secret language or slang used by criminals (archaic).

The detectives had to learn thieves' Latin to understand the gang's messages.

archaic

"To fall among thieves"

— To get into a situation where you are cheated or robbed by others.

The poor traveler fell among thieves on his way to the city.

literary

容易混淆

thieves vs robbers

Both involve stealing.

Robbery involves a direct confrontation or threat to a person, whereas theft (by thieves) is often done without the victim's knowledge.

The thieves stole the car from the driveway, but the robbers held up the store clerk.

thieves vs burglars

Both steal property.

A burglar must enter a building illegally to commit the crime. A thief can steal in public places without breaking in.

The burglars broke into the office at night, while the thieves took the phone from the park bench.

thieves vs shoplifters

They are a type of thief.

Shoplifters specifically steal from retail stores during business hours. 'Thieves' is a more general term.

The shoplifters hid the clothes in their bags, but the thieves stole the entire delivery truck.

thieves vs pickpockets

They are a type of thief.

Pickpockets specialize in stealing from a person's body or immediate possession in public. 'Thieves' can steal from anywhere.

The pickpockets were active in the subway, while the thieves were stealing bicycles from the rack.

thieves vs looters

They steal during chaos.

Looters steal during riots, wars, or natural disasters. Thieves steal under normal circumstances.

After the hurricane, looters took food from the store, but the thieves had already stolen the jewelry before the storm.

句型

The thieves [verb] the [noun].

The thieves took the bag.

The thieves [verb] because [reason].

The thieves ran because they saw the police.

The thieves managed to [verb] before [action].

The thieves managed to escape before the alarm rang.

A group of [adjective] thieves has been [verb-ing].

A group of professional thieves has been targeting banks.

The thieves' [noun] was [adjective], suggesting [conclusion].

The thieves' plan was intricate, suggesting they were experts.

Despite [obstacle], the thieves' [noun] [verb].

Despite the security, the thieves' audacity remained unchecked.

They are as thick as thieves.

The two brothers are as thick as thieves.

There is no honor among thieves.

They betrayed each other because there is no honor among thieves.

词族

名词

thief (singular)

theft (the act)

thievery (the practice)

thieving (the action)

动词

thieve (to steal)

形容词

thievish (tending to steal)

thieving (engaged in stealing)

如何使用

frequency

High (Commonly used in daily life and media)

常见错误

The thiefs stole the money. → The thieves stole the money.
The plural of 'thief' is 'thieves', not 'thiefs'. This is an irregular plural form.
The theives were caught. → The thieves were caught.
The 'i' comes before the 'e' in 'thieves'. Remember the 'i before e' rule.
The thieves was running away. → The thieves were running away.
'Thieves' is a plural noun and requires a plural verb like 'were'.
I saw the thieves's car. → I saw the thieves' car.
For plural nouns ending in 's', the possessive is formed by adding only an apostrophe.
The thieves robbed my phone from the table. → The thieves stole my phone from the table.
You 'steal' an object, but you 'rob' a person or a place. Since the phone is an object, 'stole' is correct.

小贴士

The 'f' to 'ves' Rule

Always remember that 'thief' ends in 'f', so its plural must end in 'ves'. This is a consistent rule for many English nouns. If you remember 'leaves' and 'wives', you can remember 'thieves'.

Use Specific Synonyms

To sound more advanced, use 'burglars' for house-breakers, 'pickpockets' for street thieves, and 'shoplifters' for store thieves. This shows you have a precise vocabulary.

Subject-Verb Agreement

Because 'thieves' is plural, always use 'are', 'were', or 'have'. Never say 'The thieves was caught'. This is a common mistake that is easy to fix with a little attention.

Thick as Thieves

Use this idiom to describe best friends. It's a very common and natural-sounding expression in English. It adds a bit of color to your descriptions of relationships.

Thieves vs. Robbers

In your writing, use 'robbers' if there is a weapon or a threat involved. Use 'thieves' if the crime was done quietly. This distinction is important for accurate storytelling and reporting.

Plural Possessive

When talking about something belonging to thieves, put the apostrophe after the 's': 'thieves''. This is a small detail that makes a big difference in the quality of your writing.

The Voiced 'Z'

The 's' at the end of 'thieves' is pronounced like a 'z'. Make sure your vocal cords are vibrating when you say it. This will make your pronunciation sound much more like a native speaker.

Alleged Thieves

In formal or legal writing, use the word 'alleged' before 'thieves' if they have not been proven guilty in court. This is a standard practice in journalism to avoid legal trouble.

Thieves of Time

Use 'thieves' metaphorically to talk about things that take away your time or joy. For example, 'Social media can be one of the biggest thieves of time.' This is a very poetic and effective way to use the word.

Word Families

Learn 'thief', 'thieves', 'theft', and 'thievery' together. Understanding the whole word family will help you recognize and use the word in many different forms and contexts.

记住它

记忆技巧

Think of 'THIEVES' as 'They Have In Every Vault Everything Stolen'. This helps you remember the letters and the meaning.

视觉联想

Imagine a group of people wearing black-and-white striped shirts and masks, carrying bags with dollar signs on them. This classic cartoon image of thieves is very memorable.

Word Web

Steal Crime Police Money Secret Mask Night Prison

挑战

Try to write a short story using the word 'thieves' and three of its synonyms (like 'burglars' or 'pickpockets') correctly in their specific contexts.

词源

The word 'thieves' comes from the Old English 'thēofas', which is the plural of 'thēof'. It has its roots in the Proto-Germanic word 'theubaz'. This ancient origin shows that the concept of a person who steals has been part of the language for over a thousand years. The transition from 'f' to 'v' in the plural is a characteristic of Old English phonology.

原始含义： The original meaning was simply a person who takes another's property, much as it is today.

Germanic

文化背景

Be careful when using the word to describe people, as it is a serious criminal accusation. Use 'alleged thieves' if they have not been convicted.

In English-speaking countries, the term is used in legal, casual, and literary contexts. It is a very common word in news reporting.

Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves (Arabian Nights) The Thief of Bagdad (Classic Film) The Book Thief (Novel by Markus Zusak)

在生活中练习

真实语境

News Reporting

Thieves are at large
A string of thefts by thieves
Thieves targeted the area
Suspected thieves

Police/Security

Apprehend the thieves
Deter potential thieves
Thieves' modus operandi
Track the thieves

Literature/Movies

A band of thieves
The master thieves
Honor among thieves
The thieves' plan

Daily Life Warnings

Beware of thieves
Thieves operate here
Protect against thieves
Watch out for thieves

Technology

Identity thieves
Cyber thieves
Digital thieves
Thieves of data

对话开场白

"Have you ever seen a movie about a group of clever thieves?"

"What do you think is the best way to protect a house from thieves?"

"Do you believe there is really such a thing as 'honor among thieves'?"

"Have you ever heard any stories about famous thieves from history?"

"How do you think the methods of thieves have changed with the internet?"

日记主题

Write a story about two thieves who decide to stop stealing and start a real business.

Describe a scene where a group of thieves is planning a heist. What are they thinking?

Write about a time you were worried about thieves. What did you do to feel safe?

If you were a detective, how would you try to catch a group of very smart thieves?

Discuss the idea of 'noble thieves' like Robin Hood. Is it ever okay to steal?

常见问题

10 个问题

No, 'thiefs' is incorrect. The plural of 'thief' is 'thieves'. This is an irregular plural form where the 'f' changes to 'ves'. You should always use 'thieves' when talking about more than one person who steals. For example, 'The thieves were caught' is correct, but 'The thiefs were caught' is not.

The main difference is the method of stealing. Thieves usually steal secretly and avoid confrontation. Robbers, on the other hand, use force, violence, or threats to take something from a person or a place. For example, a person who steals your wallet while you are sleeping is a thief, but someone who points a gun at you and demands your wallet is a robber.

The possessive form of the plural noun 'thieves' is 'thieves''. You add an apostrophe after the final 's'. For example, 'The thieves' getaway car was found in the alley.' If you are talking about only one thief, the possessive is 'thief's', as in 'The thief's mask fell off.'

No, 'thieves' is a plural noun. The verb form is 'thieve', which means to steal. For example, you can say 'They like to thieve,' but it is much more common to use the verb 'steal'. 'Thieves' is strictly used to refer to the people who commit the act.

This is an idiom that means two or more people are very close friends and share many secrets. It doesn't mean they are actually criminals. For example, 'Sarah and Jane have been thick as thieves since they were five years old.' It suggests a high level of trust and intimacy between friends.

Generally, yes, because it refers to people who commit crimes. However, in fiction, thieves can sometimes be portrayed as heroes or 'lovable rogues'. Also, in sports, it can be used as a compliment for a player who is good at stealing the ball. But in real life, calling someone a thief is a serious insult and accusation.

Identity thieves are criminals who steal personal information, such as credit card numbers, social security numbers, or passwords. They use this information to pretend to be the victim and steal money or commit other crimes. This is a very common type of modern theft that happens mostly online or through phone scams.

A 'den of thieves' is a phrase used to describe a place where many dishonest or criminal people gather. It can be used literally to describe a criminal hideout, or metaphorically to describe a corrupt organization or business. For example, 'The investors realized the company was just a den of thieves.'

This is a common saying that suggests even criminals have their own rules and will not betray each other. It implies that thieves have a sense of loyalty to their partners. However, people also often say 'there is no honor among thieves' to mean that criminals will eventually turn on each other to save themselves.

One way is to remember the 'i before e' rule: 'th-I-E-ves'. Another way is to remember the singular 'thief' and the rule that 'f' changes to 'ves' in the plural, just like 'leaf' becomes 'leaves' and 'wolf' becomes 'wolves'. Practicing writing the word in sentences will also help it become natural.

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