Robo vs. asalto vs. atraco

The Spanish language, like many others, has multiple words to describe similar but subtly different concepts. This is the case with the words 'robo', 'asalto', and 'atraco' - all of which can be translated to 'robbery' in English. However, each word carries a distinct shade of meaning within the context they are used.

Robo

The word 'robo' refers to the act of taking something that belongs to someone else, usually in secret and without the victim's knowledge or physical presence in that moment.
Se dio cuenta del robo cuando llegó a casa y vio todas sus cosas revueltas.
(He realized about the theft when he got home and saw all his stuff messed up.)

Asalto

'Asalto', on the other hand, involves directly confronting the victim with threats or violence. The criminal holds up the victim, typically in public areas or on streets at night.
Fui víctima de un asalto cuando regresaba a casa anoche.
(I was a victim of a mugging when I was returning home last night.)

Atraco

'Atraco' represents a higher level of robbery - often involving armed attackers who target banks, stores, or joggers in public places. It is a more organized criminal activity typically manifested with a higher degree of planning and execution.
El banco fue cerrado después de sufrir un atraco ayer.
(The bank was closed after suffering a heist yesterday.)

Summary

In conclusion 'robo', 'asalto', and 'atraco' all refer to forms of theft but differ based on their severity and manner of execution. While robo often involves stealthy theft often without the victim's immediate knowledge, asalto entails direct confrontation with the victim involving threats or violence. Atraco takes it up a notch involving typically armed and organized criminals targeting banks or stores in broad daylight.