Espionage: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in contexts involving secret and often illegal activities by governments or organizations to gather information, typically for political or military purposes. Has a more formal and serious connotation.

• The government charged him with espionage for stealing confidential documents

Commonly used in more informal contexts or everyday speech to refer to secretly watching or obtaining information. It can have a negative connotation, especially when referring to illegal or unethical practices.

• He was accused of spying on his competitors to steal their business secrets

Used in contexts involving the collection of information by military, governmental, or other organizations, often in a more neutral or formal tone. Can encompass a wide range of information collections, not necessarily illegal.

• Intelligence gathering is essential for national security

Used in contexts involving the continuous monitoring of behaviors or activities, usually by law enforcement or security organizations. It emphasizes the observation aspect and may not always be secret.

• The police set up surveillance to monitor the suspect's activities

Espionage refers to the act of spying or using spies to obtain secret information, especially related to political or military information. It is commonly used in formal and serious contexts, particularly involving government or corporate intelligence.

• The government arrested the agent on charges of espionage.
• Espionage between countries has been a serious issue for decades.

Snooping involves secretly looking into someone's personal affairs without their knowledge. It is often used in everyday contexts and has a negative connotation, implying nosiness or invasion of privacy.

• Stop snooping through my emails!
• He was caught snooping around his neighbor's yard.

Eavesdropping involves listening in on private conversations without permission. It is less severe than espionage and is often used in everyday contexts where someone might be overhearing a personal conversation.

• She was caught eavesdropping on their secret conversation.
• Eavesdropping on your coworkers can lead to misunderstandings.