mugger

/'mʌgə/

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Explanation of the Word "Mugger"

Definition:
A "mugger" is a person who steals from someone else, usually by threatening or using violence. This often happens on the street or in public places.

Example Sentence:

• "The mugger approached the woman and demanded her purse."

Advanced Usage:

In more formal or advanced contexts, you might encounter the term in discussions about crime statistics or urban safety. For instance: - "The city has implemented new safety measures to reduce the number of muggers in the downtown area."

Word Variants:

• Mugging (noun): The act of stealing from someone in a violent way.

  • Example: "He was a victim of a mugging last night."

• Mug (verb): To make a face or gesture to show that you are joking or not serious. (This is a different meaning.)

  • Example: "The comedian started to mug for the audience."

Different Meanings:

• Mug (in British English): It can also refer to a large cup, typically used for drinking hot beverages, but this is unrelated to the meaning of "mugger."
• Mug (slang): Sometimes refers to a foolish person.

Synonyms:

• Robber: A general term for someone who steals.
• Thief: A person who steals, but may not use violence.
• Assailant: A person who attacks someone, but not specifically for the purpose of stealing.

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

While there are no common idioms or phrasal verbs specifically related to "mugger," you might hear phrases like: - "Mugging for the camera": This means to make exaggerated faces or poses for a photograph, unrelated to the crime context.

Summary:

A "mugger" is someone who steals using threats or violence, usually in public.

Academic

Noun

1. a robber who takes property by threatening or performing violence on the person who is robbed (usually on the street)