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Well, on the other hand when the phrase "stole my idea" is used in common usage, it's widely understood that your idea is retained, just someone else took it.

Well, on the other hand when the phrase "stole my idea" is used in common usage, it's widely understood that your idea is retained, just someone else took it. You are correct, legally it is not theft. But we've been using the word in a way that is not legally strict for a quite a while.

roc 16y ago
And 'we' would be and have been wrong to say 'stole my idea' as well. We, of all people, should appreciate and insist on the distinction.
- thasmin 16y ago
  May I suggest, "If they stole your idea, how do you know you ever had it?"