Top 64 Slang For Shoplifting – Meaning & Usage

Shoplifting, a controversial and illegal act, has unfortunately become a part of modern society. But did you know that there is a whole underground language surrounding this illicit activity? From “five-finger discount” to “boosting,” we’ve gathered the top slang terms for shoplifting. Whether you’re curious about the lingo or want to stay informed, this listicle will give you a glimpse into a world that most people never knew existed. Stay tuned to discover the secret language of shoplifters and gain a new perspective on this societal issue.

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1. Blag

To blag means to steal or take something without permission or payment. This term is often used in British slang.

For example, “He managed to blag a free ticket to the concert.”
In a conversation about shoplifting, someone might say, “I heard she blagged a bunch of clothes from that store.”
A person discussing their past might admit, “When I was younger, I used to blag a lot of candy from the corner store.”

2. Bleed Dry

To bleed dry means to completely empty out a store of its merchandise, often through shoplifting. This term implies taking everything of value without leaving anything behind.

For instance, “A group of thieves bled the store dry, leaving nothing on the shelves.”
In a discussion about shoplifting techniques, someone might say, “If you want to bleed a store dry, you need to have a good distraction plan.”
A person sharing their shoplifting experience might confess, “I once bled a high-end boutique dry and got away with it.”

3. Bogart

To bogart means to monopolize or keep something all for oneself, especially in the context of shoplifting. This term is derived from the actor Humphrey Bogart, known for his iconic roles where he often kept a cigarette to himself without sharing.

For example, “She bogarted all the best items from the store and didn’t let anyone else have a chance.”
In a conversation about shoplifting strategies, someone might say, “Don’t bogart all the good stuff; leave some for the others.”
A person discussing their shoplifting habits might admit, “I tend to bogart the items I really want and leave the rest behind.”

4. Boost

To boost means to steal or take something without permission. This term is commonly used in the context of shoplifting.

For instance, “He managed to boost a new pair of sneakers from the store.”
In a discussion about shoplifting techniques, someone might say, “You need to be quick and discreet if you want to successfully boost something.”
A person sharing their shoplifting experience might confess, “I used to boost small items like makeup and accessories when I was younger.”

5. Borrowing Without Permission

Borrowing without permission refers to the act of taking something from a store or person without their knowledge or consent. This term is often used humorously to downplay the seriousness of shoplifting.

For example, “I may have engaged in a little borrowing without permission at the mall yesterday.”
In a conversation about shoplifting, someone might say, “I don’t condone stealing, but sometimes a little unauthorized borrowing can be tempting.”
A person discussing their past might admit, “Back in my rebellious days, I did some unauthorized borrowing from various stores.”

6. Carp

To take something without permission or payment. “Carp” is a slang term used to describe the act of shoplifting or stealing.

For example, “He carped a pack of gum from the convenience store.”
A person might say, “I need to carp some new clothes for the party.”
In a discussion about theft, someone might mention, “Carping is illegal and can result in serious consequences.”

7. Chav

A derogatory term used to describe a person, typically from a lower socioeconomic background, who engages in antisocial behavior, including shoplifting. “Chav” is a slang term often associated with shoplifting and criminal activity.

For instance, “He’s a known chav who’s been caught shoplifting multiple times.”
A person might say, “Watch out for the chavs in that area, they’re known for stealing.”
In a discussion about crime, someone might mention, “Chavs often target stores for shoplifting due to their low-income status.”

8. Clean Out

To completely remove or take everything from a place, often referring to shoplifting or stealing.

For example, “He cleaned out the store, taking all the valuable items.”
A person might say, “I’m going to clean out that shop and take everything I can.”
In a discussion about theft, someone might mention, “Cleaning out a store is a serious crime with severe penalties.”

9. Cozen

To deceive or trick someone into giving up something, often used in the context of shoplifting or stealing.

For instance, “He cozened the cashier into giving him a discount on the item.”
A person might say, “I’m going to cozen the store owner into giving me free merchandise.”
In a discussion about theft techniques, someone might mention, “Cozening often involves manipulation and deceit to steal items without detection.”

10. Debo

To forcefully or aggressively take something from someone, often used in the context of shoplifting or stealing.

For example, “He debos items from stores without anyone noticing.”
A person might say, “I’m going to debo that expensive item from the store.”
In a discussion about theft, someone might mention, “Deboing is a risky method of shoplifting that can lead to confrontations and legal consequences.”

11. Gaffle

To take something without permission or payment. “Gaffle” is a slang term often used to describe shoplifting or theft in general.

For example, “He gaffled a pack of gum from the convenience store.”
In a discussion about crime, someone might say, “Shoplifters often gaffle small, high-value items.”
A person sharing a personal story might say, “I used to gaffle CDs from music stores when I was younger.”

12. Gank

Similar to “gaffle,” “gank” is another slang term used to describe stealing or shoplifting.

For instance, “He ganked a pair of headphones from the electronics store.”
In a conversation about theft, someone might say, “People who gank from stores should face consequences.”
A person discussing personal experiences might say, “I once ganked a shirt from a department store.”

13. Five-Finger Discount

This term refers to stealing or shoplifting, often used humorously to describe taking something without paying for it.

For example, “She got the five-finger discount on that new video game.”
In a discussion about shoplifting, someone might say, “The five-finger discount is never worth the risk.”
A person sharing a funny anecdote might say, “I accidentally got the five-finger discount on a candy bar once.”

14. Half-Inch

This slang term, commonly used in British English, means to steal or shoplift.

For instance, “He half-inched a bottle of whiskey from the liquor store.”
In a conversation about theft, someone might say, “Shoplifters often half-inch small, high-value items.”
A person discussing personal experiences might say, “I used to half-inch makeup from the drugstore when I was a teenager.”

15. Highway Robbery

While not directly related to shoplifting, “highway robbery” is a slang term used to describe an excessively high price or a situation where someone feels they are being taken advantage of.

For example, “Paying $10 for a cup of coffee is highway robbery.”
In a discussion about expensive products, someone might say, “The price they’re asking for that designer handbag is highway robbery.”
A person sharing a frustrating experience might say, “The cost of parking at that concert venue is highway robbery.”

16. Horch

Horch is a slang term used to describe the act of stealing or shoplifting. It can refer to taking items without paying for them or sneaking them out of a store without being noticed.

For example, “I can’t believe she horched that expensive purse.”
A teenager might say, “Let’s horch some snacks from the convenience store.”
In a discussion about theft, someone might comment, “Horching is illegal and can result in criminal charges.”

17. Knocked Off

Knocked off is a slang term that means to steal or shoplift. It can also be used to describe the act of taking something without permission or unlawfully acquiring an item.

For instance, “He knocked off a few DVDs from the store.”
A person might say, “I knocked off some candy from the supermarket.”
In a conversation about stealing, someone might mention, “Knocking off items is a crime and can have serious consequences.”

18. Lift

Lift is a slang term used to describe the act of stealing or shoplifting. It can refer to taking something without permission or unlawfully acquiring an item.

For example, “She lifted a necklace from the jewelry store.”
A person might say, “I’m going to lift some makeup from the department store.”
In a discussion about theft, someone might comment, “Lifting is a crime and can lead to legal trouble.”

19. Loot

Loot is a slang term used to describe the act of stealing or shoplifting. It can also refer to stolen goods or items acquired through illegal means.

For instance, “He looted several items from the store.”
A person might say, “Let’s go loot some clothes from the mall.”
In a conversation about theft, someone might mention, “Looting is a criminal act and can result in punishment.”

20. Misappropriate

Misappropriate is a slang term used to describe the act of stealing or shoplifting. It can also refer to using something in a way that is unauthorized or not intended.

For example, “He misappropriated money from the cash register.”
A person might say, “She misappropriated some items from the store.”
In a discussion about theft, someone might comment, “Misappropriating is illegal and can have serious consequences.”

21. Mugger

This term refers to someone who steals items from a store without paying for them. It can also be used to describe someone who engages in theft or robbery in general.

For example, “The mugger was caught on camera stealing a wallet from a passerby.”
In a conversation about shoplifting, someone might say, “I can’t believe she turned into a mugger. She used to be such a good kid.”
A news report might state, “The mugger targeted high-end stores, stealing expensive merchandise.”

22. Nick

To “nick” something means to steal it, especially in a sneaky or covert manner. It can also be used as a noun to refer to stolen goods.

For instance, “He managed to nick a candy bar from the store without anyone noticing.”
In a discussion about shoplifting techniques, someone might say, “If you want to nick something, make sure you’re quick and discreet.”
A police officer might report, “The suspect was found with a bag full of nicks and was arrested for shoplifting.”

23. Palm

To “palm” an item means to hide or conceal it, often in the palm of one’s hand, in order to steal it without being noticed.

For example, “He managed to palm a lipstick from the store without the cashier seeing.”
In a conversation about shoplifting techniques, someone might say, “Palm the item and keep your hand relaxed to avoid suspicion.”
A security guard might warn, “Watch out for individuals who try to palm items while browsing the store.”

24. Pinch

To “pinch” something means to steal it, typically by quickly grabbing or snatching it. This term is often used in reference to shoplifting.

For instance, “She pinched a pair of earrings from the jewelry store.”
In a discussion about shoplifting experiences, someone might say, “I’ve never pinched anything before, but I was tempted that day.”
A store employee might report, “We caught a shoplifter red-handed, trying to pinch a shirt.”

25. Pocket

To “pocket” something means to steal it by discreetly placing it in one’s pocket or bag. This term is commonly used when referring to shoplifting.

For example, “He managed to pocket a phone charger without the store employees noticing.”
In a conversation about shoplifting techniques, someone might say, “Make sure to pocket the item smoothly and without drawing attention.”
A store manager might say, “We have noticed an increase in individuals attempting to pocket merchandise.”

26. Prig

A prig is a slang term for a shoplifter, someone who steals items from a store without paying for them. It is often used in a derogatory manner to describe someone who engages in this illegal activity.

For example, “The store owner caught the prig red-handed stealing clothes.”
A news article might report, “A notorious prig was arrested for stealing electronics from multiple stores.”
In a conversation about crime, someone might say, “I can’t believe there are prigs who steal for a living.”

27. Punk

Punk is a slang term for a thief, someone who steals items from a store without paying for them. It is often used to describe someone who engages in illegal activities, including shoplifting.

For instance, “The punk was caught stealing candy from the store.”
A witness might identify a thief as a punk, saying, “I saw a suspicious punk trying to steal a wallet.”
In a discussion about crime prevention, someone might say, “We need to crack down on punks who think shoplifting is acceptable.”

28. Rip Off

To rip off is a slang term used to describe the act of stealing or shoplifting. It refers to taking something without paying for it, often with the intention to deceive or cheat.

For example, “The thief ripped off several valuable items from the store.”
A victim of shoplifting might say, “I can’t believe I got ripped off by that sneaky thief.”
In a conversation about crime rates, someone might comment, “Shoplifting is a common rip off that affects businesses and consumers.”

29. Smash And Grab

Smash and grab is a slang term used to describe a method of shoplifting where the thief quickly smashes a store window or display case, grabs items, and flees the scene. It is a type of quick theft that is often done impulsively.

For instance, “The thief used a brick to smash and grab expensive jewelry from the store.”
A witness might describe a shoplifting incident as a smash and grab, saying, “I saw a person smash and grab a purse from a boutique.”
In a discussion about crime trends, someone might mention, “Smash and grab incidents have been on the rise in recent months.”

30. Snake

Snake is a slang term used to describe a stealthy thief or shoplifter who moves quietly and covertly to steal items without being noticed. It implies a sense of cunning and slyness.

For example, “The snake managed to steal several wallets without anyone noticing.”
A store employee might warn others about a known snake, saying, “Watch out for that snake. They’ve been stealing from our store for months.”
In a conversation about effective security measures, someone might suggest, “We need to catch those snakes who keep shoplifting from our store.”

31. Snitch

This term refers to someone who gives information to the authorities or people in power. In the context of shoplifting, it can refer to someone who reports or exposes others who engage in shoplifting activities.

For example, “Don’t be a snitch and tell the store manager about our plan to shoplift.”
In a conversation about illegal activities, someone might say, “I heard he got caught because a snitch ratted him out.”
A person discussing the consequences of snitching might say, “Snitches often face retaliation from the people they snitch on.”

32. Swipe

This term is used to describe the act of taking something without permission or paying for it. In the context of shoplifting, “swipe” refers to the action of quickly and discreetly taking an item from a store.

For instance, “I managed to swipe a candy bar from the convenience store without anyone noticing.”
In a discussion about shoplifting techniques, someone might say, “You have to be careful when swiping items, or you might get caught.”
A person bragging about their shoplifting skills might say, “I can swipe expensive items from stores without anyone suspecting a thing.”

33. Take Off

This phrase is used to describe the act of stealing something and immediately leaving the location. It implies a swift and discreet theft without getting caught or drawing attention.

For example, “He managed to take off with a pair of shoes from the store without anyone noticing.”
In a conversation about shoplifting techniques, someone might say, “When you take off, make sure to act natural and avoid looking suspicious.”
A person sharing a shoplifting story might say, “I once took off with a designer handbag and walked out of the store like nothing happened.”

34. Trouser

This term refers to the act of stealing an item and concealing it in one’s pants or trousers. It implies a method of shoplifting where the stolen item is hidden from view and transported in the thief’s clothing.

For instance, “He managed to trouser a wallet from the store without anyone noticing.”
In a discussion about shoplifting techniques, someone might say, “You have to be careful when trousering items, or they might fall out.”
A person sharing a shoplifting tip might say, “If you’re going to trouser something, wear loose-fitting pants to avoid suspicion.”

35. Twoc

This acronym stands for “Take Without Owner’s Consent” and is used to describe the act of stealing a vehicle. In the context of shoplifting, it can also refer to the act of taking an item from a store without paying for it.

For example, “He managed to twoc a laptop from the electronics store without anyone noticing.”
In a conversation about illegal activities, someone might say, “Twocing is a risky business, but some people do it for the thrill.”
A person discussing the consequences of twocing might say, “If you get caught twocing, you could face serious legal consequences.”

36. Whiz

“Whiz” is a slang term used to refer to a shoplifter. It is often used to describe someone who is skilled or experienced in stealing from stores.

For example, someone might say, “Watch out for that guy, he’s a whiz at shoplifting.”
In a conversation about theft, one might ask, “Have you ever encountered a whiz in action?”
A store owner might say, “We need to be vigilant and catch these whizzes before they strike again.”

37. Whiz Mob

A “whiz mob” refers to a group of shoplifters who work together to steal from stores. It implies a coordinated effort and often involves distraction techniques or other methods to evade detection.

For instance, a security guard might say, “We caught a whiz mob in the act yesterday.”
In a discussion about organized retail crime, someone might mention, “Whiz mobs are a growing problem in urban areas.”
A news article might report, “Police arrested several members of a notorious whiz mob after a string of high-value thefts.”

38. Boosting

“Boosting” is a slang term used to describe the act of shoplifting. It refers to the action of taking items from a store without paying for them.

For example, someone might say, “I used to be involved in boosting, but I’ve turned my life around.”
In a conversation about theft prevention, one might ask, “What measures can stores take to combat boosting?”
A store manager might say, “We’ve seen a decrease in boosting incidents since implementing stricter security measures.”

39. Lifting

The term “lifting” is slang for shoplifting, specifically referring to the action of stealing items from a store.

For instance, someone might say, “I got caught lifting a shirt from that store.”
In a discussion about theft prevention, one might mention, “Stores often have cameras to deter lifting.”
A former shoplifter might say, “I regret my past actions of lifting, and I’m working on making amends.”

40. Pinching

The term “pinching” is slang for shoplifting. It refers to the act of taking items from a store without paying for them.

For example, someone might say, “I heard there’s been an increase in pinching at that mall.”
In a conversation about retail theft, one might ask, “What are the common methods used for pinching?”
A store employee might say, “We’re trained to be vigilant and catch anyone pinching from the shelves.”

41. Swiping

Swiping refers to the act of stealing merchandise from a store without paying for it. It is often done quickly and discreetly.

For example, “She was caught swiping makeup from the store.”
A teenager might brag, “I’m really good at swiping candy from the convenience store.”
In a conversation about shoplifting techniques, someone might say, “Swiping small items is easier than trying to take something large.”

42. Snatching

Snatching is a slang term used to describe the act of quickly taking an item from a store without paying for it. It often involves grabbing the item and making a swift exit.

For instance, “He was caught snatching a purse from the store.”
A friend might ask, “Have you ever tried snatching clothes from a department store?”
In a discussion about shoplifting strategies, someone might suggest, “Snatching items from the front of the store is riskier than going for items in the back.”

43. Racking

Racking is a slang term for shoplifting, specifically referring to the act of taking items from store shelves and concealing them. It involves removing items from their display racks without paying for them.

For example, “She was caught racking DVDs from the electronics section.”
A person might say, “I’ve gotten pretty good at racking small items like jewelry.”
In a conversation about shoplifting techniques, someone might ask, “Have you ever tried racking items while pretending to browse?”

44. Jacking

Jacking is a slang term used to describe the act of stealing merchandise from a store. It can involve various methods, such as concealing items or forcibly taking them.

For instance, “He was caught jacking a pair of sneakers from the store.”
A person might brag, “I once successfully jacked a high-end handbag.”
In a discussion about shoplifting experiences, someone might say, “Jacking items from a crowded store is riskier than targeting a quieter one.”

45. Copping

Copping is a slang term used to describe the act of taking merchandise from a store without paying for it. It can refer to shoplifting in general or specifically to stealing items.

For example, “She was caught copping makeup from the store.”
A person might say, “I’ve never tried copping anything, but I know people who have.”
In a conversation about shoplifting, someone might ask, “What’s the biggest thing you’ve ever copped from a store?”

46. Grifting

Grifting refers to the act of stealing through deception or trickery. It often involves manipulating or deceiving others in order to gain something of value without their knowledge or consent.

For example, a grifter might pretend to be a salesperson and steal money from unsuspecting customers.
In a discussion about con artists, someone might say, “Grifting requires a combination of charm, quick thinking, and the ability to manipulate people.”
A character in a crime novel might be described as a skilled grifter who can swindle anyone out of their money.

47. Filching

Filching refers to the act of secretly taking something without permission or without others noticing. It often involves taking small items or valuables without being detected.

For instance, someone might filch a candy bar from a store without paying for it.
In a conversation about petty theft, someone might say, “Filching is more about the thrill of getting away with something than the value of the item.”
A character in a movie might be described as a skilled filcher who can steal valuables without leaving a trace.

48. Plundering

Plundering refers to the act of looting or stealing on a large scale, often during times of chaos or war. It involves taking valuable items or resources by force or through illegal means.

For example, an army might plunder a conquered city, taking gold, art, and other valuable items.
In a discussion about historical piracy, someone might say, “Plundering was a common practice among pirates, who would raid ships for their cargo.”
A character in a fantasy novel might be described as a notorious plunderer who steals treasure from ancient tombs.

49. Liberating

Liberating refers to the act of taking something for oneself, often with the belief that it is deserved or needed. It can be used as a euphemism for shoplifting, suggesting that the item is being “liberated” from its rightful owner.

For instance, someone might say, “I liberated this lipstick from the store because I couldn’t afford to buy it.”
In a conversation about ethical dilemmas, someone might ask, “Is liberating food from a grocery store to feed your family justified in certain circumstances?”
A character in a novel might justify their actions by saying, “I’m just liberating what should have been mine in the first place.”

50. Boostin’

Boostin’ is a slang term for stealing or shoplifting. It is often used in urban settings or among individuals involved in criminal activities.

For example, someone might say, “He got caught boostin’ a pair of sneakers from the mall.”
In a discussion about crime rates, someone might mention, “Boostin’ is a common problem in this neighborhood.”
A character in a movie might be described as a skilled boostin’ artist who can steal items without being caught.

51. Ripping off

This term refers to the act of stealing or taking something without permission or payment. It can also imply taking advantage of someone or cheating them out of something.

For example, “He was caught ripping off items from the store.”
In a conversation about scams, someone might say, “Don’t fall for that deal, it’s a rip-off.”
A person might complain, “I feel like I’m always getting ripped off by these high prices.”

52. Boosting goods

This phrase is used to describe the act of stealing or taking goods, usually from a store or shop, with the intention of reselling them or using them personally.

For instance, “He was arrested for boosting goods from multiple stores.”
In a discussion about shoplifting techniques, someone might say, “Boosting goods requires careful planning and quick reflexes.”
A person might brag, “I’ve been boosting goods for years and never been caught.”

53. Shoplifting spree

This term refers to a period of time during which someone engages in multiple acts of shoplifting, often in quick succession or with increased frequency.

For example, “The teenager went on a shoplifting spree and stole from several stores.”
In a conversation about crime rates, someone might say, “Shoplifting sprees tend to increase during the holiday season.”
A news headline might read, “Local shoplifting spree ends with multiple arrests.”

54. Shoplifting haul

This phrase is used to describe the stolen items or merchandise that someone has acquired through shoplifting. It refers to the collection or accumulation of stolen goods.

For instance, “The police recovered a shoplifting haul worth thousands of dollars.”
In a discussion about stolen goods, someone might ask, “What did you get in your latest shoplifting haul?”
A person might boast, “I’ve built up quite a shoplifting haul over the years.”

55. Shoplifting run

This term refers to a period of time during which someone engages in multiple acts of shoplifting, often with the intention of stealing as much as possible in a short amount of time.

For example, “He went on a shoplifting run and stole from several stores in a single day.”
In a conversation about criminal behavior, someone might say, “Shoplifting runs are often fueled by desperation or addiction.”
A news report might state, “The local police are cracking down on shoplifting runs in the area.”

56. Shoplifting score

This term refers to the act of successfully stealing merchandise from a store. The “shoplifting score” is a slang term used to describe the value or quantity of items stolen.

For example, a person might say, “I had a great shoplifting score today, I got away with five designer handbags.”
In a conversation about shoplifting techniques, someone might ask, “What’s the highest shoplifting score you’ve ever had?”
A shoplifter discussing their strategy might say, “I always target high-end department stores for a bigger shoplifting score.”

57. Snitching

This term refers to the act of providing information or reporting someone to authorities, often in exchange for leniency or personal gain. In the context of shoplifting, “snitching” can refer to someone reporting a shoplifter to store security or the police.

For instance, a shoplifter might say, “I can’t believe she snitched on me for taking a candy bar.”
In a discussion about shoplifting consequences, someone might warn, “Be careful not to get caught, you never know who might start snitching.”
A store employee discussing theft prevention might mention, “We rely on our customers to report any suspicious activity or snitching they witness.”

58. Thieving

This term is a general slang term for the act of stealing. It can be used to describe any type of theft, including shoplifting.

For example, someone might say, “He was caught thieving from the store and was banned.”
In a conversation about crime, a person might mention, “Thieving is a serious offense with legal consequences.”
A shop owner discussing shoplifting prevention might say, “We have security measures in place to deter thieving and protect our merchandise.”

59. Sticky fingers

This term refers to someone who has a tendency to steal or has a knack for shoplifting without getting caught. It implies that the person’s fingers are “sticky” because they are adept at taking things without being noticed.

For instance, a friend might jokingly say, “Watch out for her, she’s got sticky fingers.”
In a discussion about theft, someone might comment, “He’s got sticky fingers, he’s always taking things without paying.”
A shop owner discussing shoplifting prevention might warn, “Be on the lookout for customers with sticky fingers, they can be a real challenge to catch.”

60. Light-fingered

This term refers to someone who is skilled at stealing, particularly in a quick and discreet manner. It implies that the person’s fingers are “light” because they are nimble and adept at taking things without being noticed.

For example, a shoplifter might boast, “I’ve always been light-fingered, I can swipe something without anyone noticing.”
In a conversation about shoplifting techniques, someone might mention, “Being light-fingered is a valuable skill for a successful shoplifter.”
A security guard discussing shoplifting prevention might say, “We keep an eye out for light-fingered individuals who try to steal from our store.”

61. Pilfering

Pilfering refers to the act of stealing small items or small amounts of goods, often in a sneaky or unnoticed manner.

For example, “He was caught pilfering candy bars from the convenience store.”
A person might say, “I heard there’s been a lot of pilfering going on at the office.”
In a news report, it might be mentioned, “The suspect was arrested for pilfering merchandise from multiple stores.”

62. Shoplifting

Shoplifting is the act of stealing merchandise from a store, typically without paying for it. It is a form of retail theft.

For instance, “She was caught shoplifting clothes from a department store.”
A news headline might read, “Shoplifting on the rise in local malls.”
A person might say, “I used to shoplift when I was younger, but I’ve learned my lesson.”

63. Five-finger shuffle

Five-finger shuffle is a slang term for shoplifting, referring to the act of using one’s fingers to quickly and discreetly steal items.

For example, “He’s known for his five-finger shuffle skills at the mall.”
A person might say, “I can’t believe she got away with the five-finger shuffle right in front of the security cameras.”
In a conversation about theft, someone might mention, “I’ve heard of people getting caught red-handed during a five-finger shuffle.”

64. Five-fingered discount

Five-fingered discount is a euphemism for shoplifting, implying that the thief is getting a discount by stealing the item instead of paying for it.

For instance, “He thought he could get away with a five-fingered discount on that expensive watch.”
A person might say, “I don’t condone shoplifting, but I have to admit, I’ve taken a few five-fingered discounts in my youth.”
In a news report, it might be mentioned, “The store owner caught a group of teenagers attempting a five-fingered discount on several items.”