Steal vs. Steel: Understanding Their Differences

Steal vs. Steel: Understanding Their Differences

Difference Between “Steal” and “Steel”

Even though “steal” and “steel” sound the same, they mean very different things. Here we will learn about their history, how to use them, and a simple trick to remember which is which. Let’s start!

History

Steal: The word “steal” comes from the Old English word “stelan.” It has been used for a long time to describe taking something that is not yours.

Steel: “Steel” comes from the Old English word “stēle.” It has always been used to name a strong, hard metal made from iron and carbon.

How to Use Them

Steal: “Steal” is a verb. It means to take something without asking or without paying.

• He tried to steal the bicycle.
• Don’t steal cookies from the jar.
• The thief wants to steal the gold.
• Never steal, it is wrong.
• She saw him steal the pen from the desk.

Steel: “Steel” is a noun. It is a metal used to make things like cars, buildings, and machines because it is very strong.

• The bridge is made of strong steel.
• My dad works in a steel factory.
• The knife has a steel blade.
• We have a steel door at home.
• The tower was built with steel.

Trick to Remember the Difference

Remember: “Steal” is an action (like sneak or take) – it has an “a,” and “Steel” is a thing (metal) – it has an “e.” So if you think about taking something sneakily, think “steal.” If you think about something strong and shiny, think “steel.”

Summary

In short, use “steal” when talking about taking without asking, and use “steel” when talking about the strong metal we see in buildings and tools. Both words sound the same, but they show different ideas.