What is the legal term for the unauthorized use of someone else's property?

The legal term for the unauthorized use of someone else's property is theft. This crime involves taking someone else's property with the intent to permanently deprive them of it. It encompasses a wide range of actions, including stealing personal items, shoplifting, and even intellectual property theft.

The essence of theft lies in the lack of permission from the property owner and the intention to take or use the item as if it belongs to the thief. The consequences for theft can vary depending on the value of the stolen property and the jurisdiction's laws, but it is generally considered a serious offense.

In comparison, burglary refers to entering a building unlawfully with the intent to commit a crime inside, often theft but not exclusively. Fraud involves deception for personal gain, typically in financial contexts. Vandalism is the intentional destruction of property, which does not include the unauthorized use of someone else's property in a manner consistent with theft. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for recognizing various crimes and their legal definitions.