Sneaking: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when someone is moving stealthily to avoid being noticed, often to do something they should not be doing.

• He was sneaking into the kitchen to grab a cookie
• She caught him sneaking out after curfew

Describes moving slowly and carefully to avoid detection or to approach cautiously; can imply something eerie or unsettling.

• The cat was creeping towards the birds
• A sense of dread was creeping over her

Involves moving quietly and quickly, often to get past someone or something without being noticed.

• She was slipping through the crowd unnoticed
• He slipped out of the meeting room quietly

Implies moving in a guilty or ashamed manner, usually with an attempt to be unnoticed.

• He was slinking away after being scolded
• She slinked past her parents, hoping they wouldn’t see her

Used when someone is moving quietly and secretly to avoid being noticed, usually to do something they know they shouldn't.

• He was sneaking out of the house late at night.
• She caught him sneaking a cookie from the jar.

Used in situations involving deliberately making someone believe something that is not true, often with negative implications.

• His deception was uncovered by the auditors.
• She realized his kind words were just a part of his deception.

Describes a cunning and deceitful manner, often with a sense of cleverness that is not always perceived as entirely negative but is still untrustworthy.

• His slyness helped him win the game.
• She admired his slyness in negotiating the deal.

Refers to the act of not being truthful or fair, often related to lying, cheating, or stealing.

• The company's dishonesty became evident after the scandal.
• Her dishonesty caused a rift in their friendship.