sneaky

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "sneaky" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone or something that has done something underhanded, such as, "I can't believe he was so sneaky and took the last cookie without asking!".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That's useful, particularly for [playing] posh people with sneaky agendas".

The Guardian - Film

The sneaky, vaguely socially awkward passion just "is".

The Guardian - TV & Radio

He might seem like a grinning, platitude-spewing gonk parked superfluously on the end of the judging table, but I've got a sneaky feeling Louis Walsh is actually the beating heart of X Factor.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"Nighy's decadently long jaw and narrow, sneaky eyes serve him well..."...

The Guardian - Film

It's not like anything sneaky is going on here: it is simply a way of supporting students to gain a place at a well-respected university.

The Guardian

The Labor leader, Bill Shorten, said the move was an "outrageous" and "sneaky" tax on Australian motorists and directly contradicted the prime minister's call for a mature and sensible debate on taxation.

The Guardian

But don't be sneaky - be open with your colleagues about taking on an extra project.

The Guardian - Money

We've all been caught at various times having a sneaky listen to Euphoria.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

And my sneaky fookin' eyes".

The Guardian - Film

"Sneaky eyes!

The Guardian - Film

However, contrary to your suggestion, such requirements are not "sneaky methods" that slip between the cracks of WTO disciplines.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "sneaky", ensure the context clearly indicates the deceptive or underhanded nature of the action or person being described. It is important to provide enough context for the reader to understand the negative connotation.

Common error

Avoid using "sneaky" in highly formal or professional writing where a more sophisticated or nuanced term like "deceptive" or "underhanded" might be more appropriate. Consider the audience and tone of your writing.

Linguistic Context

The adjective "sneaky" primarily functions to modify nouns, describing actions, individuals, or strategies characterized by deception, secrecy, or a lack of straightforwardness. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Formal & Business

17%

Science

16%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "sneaky" is a common and grammatically sound adjective used to describe something or someone behaving in a deceptive or underhanded way. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is widely used and understood, particularly in News & Media. While versatile, it's important to consider the tone of your writing and choose a more formal alternative like "deceptive" or "clandestine" for formal situations. The related phrases offer numerous options for conveying similar meanings, allowing for precise expression depending on the specific context. Remember to provide sufficient context to fully convey the negative connotation associated with "sneaky".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

underhanded

Implies a subtle and often unethical form of deception.

furtive

Suggests a cautious and secretive approach to avoid being noticed.

surreptitious

Emphasizes the attempt to conceal actions or intentions.

clandestine

Indicates actions done in secret, often because they are illicit.

devious

Highlights the use of clever but dishonest tactics to achieve a goal.

sly

Focuses on cleverness and cunning in a deceptive manner.

wily

Implies skill in outwitting others through deception.

scheming

Suggests the creation of a secret and complex plan.

crafty

Highlights ingenuity and skill in deceiving others.

guileful

Emphasizes the use of charm and deceit to manipulate others.

FAQs

How can I use "sneaky" in a sentence?

You can use "sneaky" to describe someone or something that behaves in a secretive or underhanded manner. For example, "He took a sneaky peek at her answers during the test", or "The company employed a sneaky tactic to avoid paying taxes".

What words are similar in meaning to "sneaky"?

Alternatives to "sneaky" include "devious", "furtive", "underhanded", "sly", and "surreptitious". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "sneaky" in formal writing?

While "sneaky" is widely understood, it might be too informal for certain formal contexts. In such cases, consider using more sophisticated synonyms like "deceptive" or "clandestine" depending on the context.

What is the difference between "sneaky" and "sly"?

Both "sneaky" and "sly" imply a degree of deception. However, "sneaky" often suggests a hidden or secretive action, while "sly" emphasizes cleverness and cunning. For example, a "sneaky" maneuver might involve subtly moving something without being noticed, whereas a "sly" remark might be cleverly designed to mislead.