What is the main characteristic of robbery compared to larceny?

Robbery is fundamentally characterized by the use or threat of force to take property from another person. This distinguishes it from larceny, which is the unlawful taking of someone else's property without consent, and does not involve any form of force or intimidation. The essence of robbery lies in its violent nature; it can occur in various contexts, but always incorporates that critical element of coercion or intimidation against the victim. This threat of harm can manifest as a direct confrontation or through an implied message that harm may befall the victim if they do not comply.

While larceny can involve stealth and deceit, it does not entail any forceful action or menace to the victim, which is why the clarification of the differences between these two crimes is essential. Robbery encompasses the personal confrontation and demand that place the victim in a vulnerable position, underscoring the significant psychological and physical threat involved. This is why the core defining element of robbery is the requirement of force or the threat thereof.