Explanation:

- Option 1: It is a theft

Theft involves taking someone's property without their consent, with the intent to permanently deprive them of it. Cutting and taking a tree without permission fits this definition.

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- Option 2: It is an extortion

Extortion requires obtaining something through coercion, intimidation, or threats. Merely cutting and taking a tree does not include these elements.

- Option 3: It is a dishonest misappropriation

Dishonest misappropriation involves wrongfully taking control of property, but generally without the element of moving it away. The focus is on using it dishonestly for oneself.

- Option 4: It is a criminal trespass

Criminal trespass involves unlawful entry onto someone's property. While entering to cut the tree can be trespass, it focuses more on entering rather than taking.

In this case, cutting and taking the tree without permission is best described as theft.