In culture, pirates are often romanticized as adventurous rebels, but historically they were feared. Pirate stories usually downplay the brutality of historical sea pirates.
Pro Tip 2/3
Negative Connotation
Using 'pirate' as a metaphor suggests someone is untrustworthy and steals openly. His rivals called him a business pirate due to his aggressive takeover tactics.
Pro Tip 3/3
Misleading Stereotypes
Avoid assuming real pirates have parrots or treasure hunts, as popularized in fiction. Despite what you see in movies, most pirates did not have treasure maps.