Translation guide
A person who steals by sneaking in and out without being noticed, often while the victim is present or nearby.
To refer to a person who steals by sneaking into a place, especially a home, without being detected.
The most common term for a burglar who targets homes when the residents are out. Literally 'empty nest', it emphasizes the absence of the occupant.
空き巣 targets empty houses, while 忍び込み enters when residents are present. Use 空き巣 for daytime burglaries and 忍び込み for nighttime intrusions.
There have been a series of sneak thief incidents in the neighborhood.
Refers to a thief who sneaks in while the resident is home, often at night. Emphasizes stealth and the act of entering.
忍び込みの被害に遭わないように鍵をかけましょう。
Lock your doors to avoid being a victim of a sneak thief.
General term for 'thief' or 'burglar'. Can be used for a sneak thief in context, but is broader.
泥棒が窓から入ったらしい。
It seems a thief entered through the window.
A petty thief who sneaks around to steal small items. Slightly old-fashioned and colloquial.
こそ泥に財布をすられた。
I had my wallet stolen by a sneak thief.