snigger

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'snigger' is a correct and usable word in written English.
It is defined as a half-suppressed or stifled laugh, often with a derogatory or mocking connotation. It can be used in a variety of situations, such as to describe someone's reaction to a joke or a sarcastic comment, or to convey a sense of superiority or disdain. Here is an example: "Despite her best efforts to remain composed, a snigger escaped from Emily's lips as she listened to her colleague's ridiculous excuses for being late for the third time this week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

From soup to nuts, it was obviously rehearsed down to the last snigger.

The Guardian

Media executives, on the other hand, snigger that these newcomers like the glamour but have no idea how showbiz works.

The Economist

VISITORS to the former headquarters of BZW, a London-based investment bank, might be forgiven a snigger or two.

The Economist

Up in San Francisco, socialites snigger about a madam alleged to have made her fortune entirely by catering to rich young nerds.

The Economist

At an unofficial ceremony the day before they received their MBAs, the students promised they would, among other things, "serve the greater good", "act with the utmost integrity" and guard against "decisions and behaviour that advance my own narrow ambitions, but harm the enterprise and the societies it serves".You may snigger.

The Economist

They may snigger at a gay joke on the golf course, but they would never ride a bus across the country to protest against gay marriage.

The Economist

The time may come when "Brainy, tough, rich old bag seeks hunky toyboy" arouses more than a snigger.

The Economist

It is easy to snigger about thin-skinned politicians who can't take criticism.

The Economist

Supposedly serious feminists argued, to audiences which did not snigger, that Newton's "Principles of Mechanics" and Beethoven's Ninth Symphony were rape fantasies.As feminism became associated with humourlessness and hairy legs, the term became a pejorative one.

The Economist

Shareholders, however, will find little to snigger about.

The Economist

They range from snooty members of an English amateur theatrical society (who snigger at Logue, an Australian, auditioning for Shakespeare) to the priggish Archbishop of Canterbury, appalled by Logue's lack of qualifications.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "snigger" to convey a sense of sly, disrespectful, or suppressed laughter. Be mindful of the context, as it can imply a negative judgment or mocking attitude.

Common error

Avoid using "snigger" in formal or academic writing where a more neutral term like "chuckle" or "laugh" might be more appropriate. "Snigger" carries a connotation of derision that may be unsuitable for serious contexts.

Linguistic Context

The word "snigger" functions as both a verb and a noun. As a verb, it describes the act of emitting a suppressed, often mocking laugh. As a noun, it refers to the sound itself. Ludwig AI confirms its correct grammatical status.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "snigger" is a versatile term, functioning as both a noun and a verb to describe a suppressed or derisive laugh. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, though its connotation of mockery makes it more appropriate for informal contexts, as seen in its prevalent use in news and media. While alternatives like "snicker" or "chuckle derisively" exist, "snigger" uniquely conveys a sense of sly, often negative amusement. Therefore, writers should use it judiciously, being mindful of the tone it projects. With a high source quality score and expert rating, understanding the nuances of "snigger" can enhance the precision and impact of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

suppress a snicker

Focuses on the act of holding back a laugh.

chuckle derisively

Implies a quiet laugh expressing scorn or contempt.

giggle mockingly

Suggests a childish, mocking laugh.

chuckle with disdain

Expresses a quiet laugh filled with scornful disapproval.

smother a laugh

Highlights the effort to conceal laughter.

express amusement derisively

Highlights the expression of amusement with contempt.

titter slyly

Indicates a nervous or suppressed laugh done in a secretive manner.

emit a snort of laughter

Emphasizes a more forceful and abrupt expression of amusement.

give a knowing laugh

Suggests a laugh based on shared secret or inside joke.

laugh derisively

Suggests a general open laugh with contempt.

FAQs

How do you use "snigger" in a sentence?

You can use "snigger" to describe a suppressed or mocking laugh, as in "The students "sniggered" at the teacher's outdated hairstyle".

What can I say instead of "snigger"?

You can use alternatives like "snicker", "chuckle derisively", or "giggle mockingly" depending on the context.

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

While grammatically correct, "snigger" often implies a mocking tone, making it less suitable for formal contexts where neutral language is preferred.

What is the difference between "snigger" and "snicker"?

"Snigger" often suggests a more malicious or derisive suppressed laugh, while "snicker" can simply imply a suppressed laugh without necessarily carrying a negative connotation.