Used when someone takes something without the owner's approval. The appropriation of music tracks without consent can lead to legal issues.
Pro Tip 2/3
Negative Connotation
Often implies disapproval or wrongdoing, not a neutral term. Her appropriation of my ideas without credit upset me greatly.
Pro Tip 3/3
Implicit Ownership
The item appropriated is usually considered someone's property, either tangible or intangible. He was accused of the appropriation of company property.