Deal vs. Steal — What's the Difference?
By Fiza Rafique & Urooj Arif — Updated on March 21, 2024
Deal involves a transaction or agreement between parties, often beneficial, while steal refers to taking something without permission, a dishonest act.
Difference Between Deal and Steal
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
A deal is a mutual agreement or transaction, typically involving the exchange of goods, services, or information, where all parties expect to benefit. It is characterized by negotiation, consent, and mutual benefit. On the other hand, to steal is to take something that belongs to someone else without their permission, often secretly or through deceit, which is considered an unethical and illegal act.
Deals are foundational to business and personal relationships, promoting cooperation and trust. They can range from simple purchases to complex agreements involving multiple stakeholders. Conversely, stealing undermines trust and violates legal and moral standards, leading to consequences such as legal action, loss of reputation, or social ostracization.
While a deal is made through an open and honest discussion with clear terms and agreements, stealing involves concealment, trickery, or force, with the thief acting unilaterally and without consent. This distinction highlights the ethical gap between the two actions.
The success of a deal is measured by the satisfaction of the parties involved and the fulfillment of agreed terms. In contrast, stealing is judged by the loss to the victim and the gain to the perpetrator, often followed by legal or social penalties.
Deals often require preparation, negotiation skills, and a willingness to compromise to reach a mutually acceptable outcome. Stealing, however, is a selfish act driven by desire, need, or greed, without regard for the well-being or rights of others.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
An agreement or transaction between parties.
Taking something without permission.
Nature
Consensual, mutual benefit.
Non-consensual, one-sided benefit.
Ethics
Ethical and legal.
Unethical and illegal.
Outcome
Mutual satisfaction and cooperation.
Loss to the victim, gain to the perpetrator.
Process
Involves negotiation and agreement.
Involves deceit, secrecy, or force.
Skills Required
Negotiation, communication, compromise.
None in ethical terms; involves deceit or trickery.
Consequences
Strengthening of relationships, fulfillment of needs.
Legal action, loss of reputation, social consequences.
Compare with Definitions
Deal
A business agreement between two or more parties.
They struck a deal to share the profits.
Steal
To move secretly or unnoticed.
She managed to steal out of the room without being seen.
Deal
To cope or manage effectively.
He deals well with pressure.
Steal
To win or gain through skill or cunning.
He stole the show with his performance.
Deal
A significant amount or extent.
It takes a great deal of effort to learn a new language.
Steal
To get or buy something at a very low price.
I got these shoes at a steal.
Deal
An arrangement for mutual advantage.
The partnership was a good deal for both companies.
Steal
To take something without permission or legal right.
Someone tried to steal my bike last night.
Deal
The act of distributing cards in a game.
It’s your turn to deal.
Steal
To copy or plagiarize ideas or work.
His design was stolen from an artist's work.
Deal
To give out in shares or portions; apportion
A critic who deals out as much praise as blame.
Steal
Take (another person's property) without permission or legal right and without intending to return it
She was found guilty of stealing from her employers
Thieves stole her bicycle
Stolen goods
Deal
To distribute (playing cards) among players.
Steal
Move somewhere quietly or surreptitiously
A delicious languor was stealing over her
He stole down to the kitchen
She disobeyed a court order and stole away with the children
Deal
To give (a specific card) to a player while so distributing.
Steal
A bargain
At £59.95 it's an absolute steal
Deal
To sell
Deal prescriptions.
Deal cocaine.
Steal
An act of stealing something
New York's biggest art steal
Deal
To administer; deliver
Dealt him a blow to the stomach.
Steal
To take (the property of another) without right or permission.
Deal
To be occupied or concerned
A book that deals with the Middle Ages.
Steal
To present or use (someone else's words or ideas) as one's own.
Deal
To behave in a specified way toward another or others; have transactions
Deal honestly with competitors.
Steal
To get or take secretly or artfully
Steal a look at a diary.
Steal the puck from an opponent.
Deal
To take action with respect to someone or something
The committee will deal with this complaint.
Steal
To give or enjoy (a kiss) that is unexpected or unnoticed.
Deal
(Informal) To cope
I can't deal with all of this arguing!.
Steal
To draw attention unexpectedly in (an entertainment), especially by being the outstanding performer
The magician's assistant stole the show with her comic antics.
Deal
To do business; trade
Dealing in diamonds.
Steal
(Baseball) To advance safely to (another base) during the delivery of a pitch, without the aid of a base hit, walk, passed ball, or wild pitch.
Deal
(Games) To distribute playing cards.
Steal
To steal another's property.
Deal
(Slang) To buy and sell drugs, especially illegally.
Steal
To move, happen, or elapse stealthily or unobtrusively
He stole away for a quiet moment. The deadline stole up on us.
Deal
(Baseball) To throw a pitch.
Steal
(Baseball) To steal a base.
Deal
The act or a round of apportioning or distributing.
Steal
The act of stealing.
Deal
Distribution of playing cards.
Steal
(Slang) A bargain.
Deal
The cards so distributed; a hand.
Steal
(Baseball) A stolen base.
Deal
The right or turn of a player to distribute the cards.
Steal
(Basketball) An act of gaining possession of the ball from an opponent.
Deal
The playing of one hand.
Steal
(transitive) To take illegally, or without the owner's permission, something owned by someone else without intending to return it.
Three irreplaceable paintings were stolen from the gallery.
Deal
An indefinite quantity, extent, or degree
Has a great deal of experience.
Steal
To appropriate without giving credit or acknowledgement.
They stole my idea for a biodegradable, disposable garbage de-odorizer.
Deal
An agreement, especially one that is mutually beneficial.
Steal
(transitive) To get or effect surreptitiously or artfully.
He stole glances at the pretty woman across the street.
Deal
A business transaction
Struck a deal to buy a car dealership.
Steal
To acquire at a low price.
He stole the car for two thousand less than its book value.
Deal
A legal contract
Signed a deal to play for a new team.
Steal
(transitive) To draw attention unexpectedly in (an entertainment), especially by being the outstanding performer. Usually used in the phrase steal the show.
Deal
(Informal) A sale favorable especially to the buyer; a bargain.
Steal
(intransitive) To move silently or secretly.
He stole across the room, trying not to wake her.
Deal
(Informal) Treatment received
A raw deal.
A fair deal.
Steal
(transitive) To convey (something) clandestinely.
Deal
(Informal) The situation or background information regarding something
What's the deal with the new teacher?.
Steal
To withdraw or convey (oneself) clandestinely.
Deal
A fir or pine board cut to standard dimensions.
Steal
To advance safely to (another base) during the delivery of a pitch, without the aid of a hit, walk, passed ball, wild pitch, or defensive indifference.
Deal
Such boards or planks considered as a group.
Steal
To dispossess
Deal
Fir or pine wood.
Steal
To borrow for a short moment.
Can I steal your pen?
Deal
(obsolete) A division, a portion, a share, a part, a piece.
We gave three deals of grain in tribute to the king.
Steal
Take, plagiarize, tell on a joke, use a well-worded expression in one's own parlance or writing
Deal
(often followed by of) An indefinite quantity or amount; a lot (now usually qualified by great or good).
Steal
The act of stealing.
Deal
An act of dealing or sharing out.
Steal
(slang) A piece of merchandise available at a very low, attractive price.
At this price, this car is a steal.
Deal
(card games) The distribution of cards to players; a player's turn for this.
I didn’t have a good deal all evening.
I believe it's your deal.
Steal
A situation in which a defensive player actively takes possession of the ball or puck from the opponent's team.
Deal
A particular instance of trading (buying or selling; exchanging; bartering); a transaction.
We need to finalise the deal with Henderson by midnight.
Recognizing the societal deal between capital and labor regarding retirement savings
Steal
(baseball) A stolen base.
Deal
(in particular) A transaction offered which is financially beneficial; a bargain.
Steal
(curling) Scoring in an end without the hammer.
Deal
An agreement between parties; an arrangement.
He made a deal with the devil.
Steal
(computing) A policy in database systems that a database follows which allows a transaction to be written on nonvolatile storage before its commit occurs.
Deal
(informal) A situation, occasion, or event.
What's the deal here?
Their new movie is the biggest deal of the year.
I don't think that's such a big deal.
Steal
A handle; a stale, or stele.
And in his hand a huge poleax did bear.Whose steale was iron-studded but not long.
Deal
(informal) A thing, an unspecified or unidentified object.
The deal with four tines is called a pitchfork.
Steal
To take, and carry away, feloniously; to take without right or leave, and with intent to keep wrongfully; as, to steal the personal goods of another.
Maugre thy heed, thou must for indigenceOr steal, or beg, or borrow, thy dispense.
The man who stole a goose and gave away the giblets in alms.
Deal
(uncountable) Wood that is easy to saw (from conifers such as pine or fir).
Steal
To withdraw or convey clandestinely (reflexive); hence, to creep furtively, or to insinuate.
They could insinuate and steal themselves under the same by their humble carriage and submission.
He will steal himself into a man's favor.
Deal
(countable) A plank of softwood (fir or pine board).
Steal
To gain by insinuating arts or covert means.
So Absalom stole the hearts of the men of Israel.
Deal
A wooden board or plank, usually between 12 or 14 feet in length, traded as a commodity in shipbuilding.
Steal
To get into one's power gradually and by imperceptible degrees; to take possession of by a gradual and imperceptible appropriation; - with away.
Variety of objects has a tendency to steal away the mind from its steady pursuit of any subject.
Deal
(a) Male genitalia.
He saw my deal!
Steal
To accomplish in a concealed or unobserved manner; to try to carry out secretly; as, to steal a look.
Always, when thou changest thine opinion or course, profess it plainly, . . . and do not think to steal it.
She yesterday wanted to steal a march of poor Liddy.
Fifty thousand men can not easily steal a march over the sea.
Deal
(transitive) To distribute among a number of recipients, to give out as one’s portion or share.
The fighting is over; now we deal out the spoils of victory.
Steal
To practice, or be guilty of, theft; to commit larceny or theft.
Thou shalt not steal.
Deal
(transitive) To administer or give out, as in small portions.
Steal
To withdraw, or pass privily; to slip in, along, or away, unperceived; to go or come furtively.
Fixed of mind to avoid further entreaty, and to fly all company, one night she stole away.
From whom you now must steal, and take no leave.
A soft and solemn breathing soundRose like a steam of rich, distilled perfumes,And stole upon the air.
Deal
(ambitransitive) To distribute cards to the players in a game.
I was dealt four aces.
The cards were shuffled, and the croupier dealt.
Steal
An advantageous purchase;
She got a bargain at the auction
The stock was a real buy at that price
Deal
(transitive) deliver damage, a blow, strike or cut. To inflict.
The boxer was dealt a blow to the head.
Steal
A stolen base; an instance in which a base runner advances safely during the delivery of a pitch (without the help of a hit or walk or passed ball or wild pitch)
Deal
(baseball) To pitch.
The whole crowd waited for him to deal a real humdinger.
Steal
Take without the owner's consent;
Someone stole my wallet on the train
This author stole entire paragraphs from my dissertation
Deal
(intransitive) To have dealings or business.
Steal
Move stealthily;
The ship slipped away in the darkness
Deal
(intransitive) To conduct oneself, to behave.
Steal
Steal a base
Deal
To take action; to act.
Steal
To go stealthily or furtively;
..stead of sneaking around spying on the neighbor's house
Deal
(intransitive) To trade professionally (followed by in).
She deals in gold.
Deal
(ambitransitive) To sell, especially to sell illicit drugs.
This club takes a dim view of members who deal drugs.
Deal
(intransitive) To be concerned with.
Deal
(intransitive) To handle, to manage, to cope.
I can't deal with this.
Deal
Made of deal.
A plain deal table
Deal
A part or portion; a share; hence, an indefinite quantity, degree, or extent, degree, or extent; as, a deal of time and trouble; a deal of cold.
Three tenth deals [parts of an ephah] of flour.
As an object of science it [the Celtic genius] may count for a good deal . . . as a spiritual power.
She was resolved to be a good deal more circumspect.
Deal
The process of dealing cards to the players; also, the portion disturbed.
The deal, the shuffle, and the cut.
Deal
Distribution; apportionment.
Deal
An arrangement to attain a desired result by a combination of interested parties; - applied to stock speculations and political bargains.
Deal
The division of a piece of timber made by sawing; a board or plank; particularly, a board or plank of fir or pine above seven inches in width, and exceeding six feet in length. If narrower than this, it is called a batten; if shorter, a deal end.
Deal
Wood of the pine or fir; as, a floor of deal.
Deal
Specifically: To distribute, as cards, to the players at the commencement of a game; as, to deal the cards; to deal one a jack.
Deal
To make distribution; to share out in portions, as cards to the players.
Deal
To do a distributing or retailing business, as distinguished from that of a manufacturer or producer; to traffic; to trade; to do business; as, he deals in flour.
They buy and sell, they deal and traffic.
This is to drive to wholesale trade, when all other petty merchants deal but for parcels.
Deal
To act as an intermediary in business or any affairs; to manage; to make arrangements; - followed by between or with.
Sometimes he that deals between man and man, raiseth his own credit with both, by pretending greater interest than he hath in either.
Deal
To conduct one's self; to behave or act in any affair or towards any one; to treat.
If he will deal clearly and impartially, . . . he will acknowledge all this to be true.
Deal
To contend (with); to treat (with), by way of opposition, check, or correction; as, he has turbulent passions to deal with.
The deacons of his church, who, to use their own phrase, "dealt with him" on the sin of rejecting the aid which Providence so manifestly held out.
Return . . . and I will deal well with thee.
Deal
A particular instance of buying or selling;
It was a package deal
I had no further trade with him
He's a master of the business deal
Deal
An agreement between parties (usually arrived at after discussion) fixing obligations of each;
He made a bargain with the devil
He rose to prominence through a series of shady deals
Deal
(often followed by `of') a large number or amount or extent;
A batch of letters
A deal of trouble
A lot of money
He made a mint on the stock market
It must have cost plenty
Deal
A plank of softwood (fir or pine board)
Deal
Wood that is easy to saw (from conifers such as pine or fir)
Deal
The cards held in a card game by a given player at any given time;
I didn't hold a good hand all evening
He kept trying to see my hand
Deal
The type of treatment received (especially as the result of an agreement);
He got a good deal on his car
Deal
The act of distributing playing cards;
The deal was passed around the table clockwise
Deal
The act of apportioning or distributing something;
The captain was entrusted with the deal of provisions
Deal
Deal with verbally or in some form of artistic expression;
This book deals with incest
The course covered all of Western Civilization
The new book treats the history of China
Deal
Take action with respect to (someone or something);
How are we going to deal with this problem?
The teacher knew how to deal with these lazy students
Deal
Take into consideration for exemplifying purposes;
Take the case of China
Consider the following case
Deal
Come to terms or deal successfully with;
We got by on just a gallon of gas
They made do on half a loaf of bread every day
Deal
Administer or bestow, as in small portions;
Administer critical remarks to everyone present
Dole out some money
Shell out pocket money for the children
Deal a blow to someone
Deal
Do business; offer for sale as for one's livelihood;
She deals in gold
The brothers sell shoes
Deal
Be in charge of, act on, or dispose of;
I can deal with this crew of workers
This blender can't handle nuts
She managed her parents' affairs after they got too old
Deal
Behave in a certain way towards others;
He deals fairly with his employees
Deal
Distribute to the players in a game;
Who's dealing?
Deal
Direct the course of; manage or control;
You cannot conduct business like this
Deal
Give out as one's portion or share
Deal
Give (a specific card) to a player;
He dealt me the Queen of Spades
Deal
Sell;
Deal hashish
Deal
Made of fir or pine;
A plain deal table
Common Curiosities
Can stealing ever be justified?
While some argue necessity or moral reasons can justify stealing, legally and ethically, it is considered wrong.
What is a fair deal?
A fair deal is one where all parties receive equitable value and benefits, reflecting their contributions and expectations.
How can I make a good deal?
Making a good deal involves understanding the needs and limitations of all parties, effective negotiation, and aiming for a win-win outcome.
What makes a deal ethical?
A deal is ethical when it is transparent, consensual, and aims for mutual benefit without exploiting any party.
What are the consequences of stealing?
Consequences can include legal penalties, loss of trust, damaged reputation, and social or financial repercussions.
Can a deal turn into stealing?
If one party deceitfully manipulates the terms or fails to deliver on the agreement, it might be considered theft by deception.
What is the legal definition of stealing?
Legally, stealing is the unauthorized taking of property from another with the intent to permanently deprive them of it.
Is it stealing if I find something and keep it?
Keeping found property without attempting to return it to its owner can be considered stealing in many jurisdictions.
What is the difference between borrowing and stealing?
Borrowing involves taking something with the owner’s permission and the intent to return it, unlike stealing.
Why is negotiation important in making a deal?
Negotiation ensures that the terms meet the needs and expectations of all parties, leading to satisfaction and mutual benefit.
What is a "steal of a deal"?
This phrase refers to an exceptionally good deal where something is obtained at a much lower price than its perceived value.
How does culture affect perceptions of deals and stealing?
Cultural norms and values can influence what is considered a fair deal or acceptable behavior, including views on property rights and negotiation practices.
What role do ethics play in business deals?
Ethics ensure that business deals are conducted fairly, responsibly, and with respect for the rights and interests of all involved.
Can digital content be stolen?
Yes, unauthorized copying, sharing, or use of digital content without permission is considered a form of stealing, often called piracy.
How can I protect myself from stealing?
Protective measures include securing personal belongings, using digital security tools, and being vigilant about sharing information.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
