sneak out

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sneak out" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to express someone sneaking out of a place without being seen or heard. For example, "I decided to sneak out of my office during lunchtime so that I could grab a quick bite to eat".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

37 human-written examples

Could he sneak out?

The New Yorker

"Sneak out," he pressed.

The New York Times

You'll sneak out, and I'll take your place".

The New Yorker

He could sneak out early morning while she slept.

The New Yorker

"I'm able to sneak out for Thai food," he said.

Independent

Or should you sneak out and visit Cherry?

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

20 human-written examples

"They totally sneaked out".

The New York Times - Magazine

We snuck out like thieves".

The New York Times

Barris sneaked out anyway, scared.

The New Yorker

He sneaks out to use the garage apartment.

The New Yorker

Last Christmas, her half-brother sneaked out to help make her.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "sneak out" when you want to emphasize the act of leaving a place secretly or without permission. It's especially useful in narratives where characters are trying to avoid detection.

Common error

While both phrases involve leaving quietly, "sneak out" implies a deliberate attempt to avoid being seen or heard, often suggesting wrongdoing or mischief. "Slip out" is more neutral and suggests a less secretive departure. Choose the phrase that best reflects the intention behind the action.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sneak out" functions as an intransitive verb phrase, indicating an action of leaving a place quietly and secretly. As Ludwig AI explains, it emphasizes the manner of departure more than the destination.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Wiki

14%

Science

1%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "sneak out" is a common and grammatically sound verb phrase used to describe leaving a place discreetly, often to avoid detection or without permission. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and provides numerous examples of its usage across various contexts. While similar phrases like "slip away" or "steal away" exist, "sneak out" specifically emphasizes the secretive nature of the departure. Whether you're writing a novel or a news report, understanding the nuances of "sneak out" will enhance your ability to convey furtive actions with precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

slip away

Focuses on quiet departure, less emphasis on secrecy.

steal away

Implies a clandestine departure, often for a romantic or illicit purpose.

creep out

Highlights the stealthy and cautious manner of leaving.

tiptoe out

Emphasizes the quietness of the departure, often to avoid waking someone.

leave unnoticed

Highlights the goal of not being detected while departing.

escape quietly

Focuses on avoiding attention while leaving, suggesting a desire to avoid detection.

abscond

Suggests a hurried and secretive departure, often to avoid consequences.

bolt

Implies a sudden and abrupt departure, often driven by fear or urgency.

make an exit

Offers a more formal and polite way to describe leaving, but can still imply discretion.

duck out

Suggests a quick and casual departure, often to avoid an undesirable situation.

FAQs

How can I use "sneak out" in a sentence?

You can use "sneak out" to describe someone leaving a place quietly and secretly, often without permission. For example, "He planned to "sneak out" after his parents went to bed" or "She managed to "sneak out" during the meeting without anyone noticing".

What does it mean to "sneak out"?

To "sneak out" means to leave a place or situation quietly and secretly, usually to avoid being noticed or to do something without permission. It implies a deliberate attempt to be discreet.

What are some alternatives to "sneak out"?

Alternatives to "sneak out" include "slip away", "steal away", or "creep out". The best choice depends on the specific context and the level of secrecy involved.

Is it correct to say "snuck out" instead of "sneaked out"?

Both "snuck out" and "sneaked out" are acceptable past tense forms of "sneak out", although "snuck out" is more common in American English, while "sneaked out" is more prevalent in British English. Choose the form that aligns with your preferred dialect.