stool pigeon

USAGE SUMMARY

"stool pigeon" is an acceptable phrase that can be used in both spoken and written English.
It is a slang term, so it is best used informally. Example sentence: "My brother is such a stool pigeon, he told my parents what I did when I was supposed to be out studying."

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Kid Creole and the Coconuts Stool Pigeon.

The Guardian - Music

There is, however, another side to the stool pigeon.

The New York Times - Books

he was fired because he refused to be a stool pigeon and informer.

Cornell University

Me, I think Charlie's too straight to be a stool pigeon.

The Guardian

To borrow again from the apocalypse-minded Stool Pigeon, "The people need to know the story".

The New York Times

She treats Ophelia with a regretful disdain on realising she has become a stool pigeon.

The Guardian

Two of his movies, "Le Doulos" (1962), which means "The Stool Pigeon," and "Le Deuxi?

The New York Times

"People would stop me at airports and sing the 'ha cha cha cha!' bit from Stool Pigeon," he says.

The Guardian - Music

Only God, as Stool Pigeon says, may strike the chords that reverberate through the scheme of life.

The New York Times

The case presented was that stool pigeon made the purchase while Federal narcotic agents watched him do so.

The New Yorker

Through the help of a stool pigeon, the detectives discovered one of the boys as Frank Wasniak.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "stool pigeon" in informal contexts where the negative connotation of betrayal is appropriate. Avoid it in formal or professional settings.

Common error

Avoid using "stool pigeon" in academic papers, business reports, or official communications. Opt for more neutral terms like "informant" or "source" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "stool pigeon" is as a noun, specifically a compound noun, functioning as a subject or object within a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its usage in various contexts as a label for an informant.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Science

1%

Academia

0.5%

Encyclopedias

0.5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "stool pigeon" is a noun phrase with a derogatory connotation, used to describe an informer, especially one who betrays others. Ludwig AI confirms that while grammatically acceptable, its use is best suited for informal contexts. Be mindful of the term's negative implications and consider alternatives like "informant" or "source" in more formal settings. The phrase is very common, particularly in news and media, although its use in academic or business contexts should be approached with caution. Ludwig's examples show its consistent application across various publications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

snitch

A more informal and derogatory term for an informer, similar in negativity to "stool pigeon".

rat

A highly negative slang term for someone who betrays others by informing.

fink

A derogatory term for a person who is considered disreputable, especially an informer.

informant

A general term for someone who provides information, lacking the negative connotation of "stool pigeon".

mole

Refers to a spy within an organization, usually working long-term.

plant

Someone placed secretly in an organization to gather information or influence events.

double agent

Someone who pretends to be on one side but is secretly working for the opposing side.

undercover agent

A law enforcement officer who pretends to be someone else in order to gather information.

source

A neutral term for someone who provides information, often in journalism or intelligence.

collaborator

Someone who cooperates with an enemy or an authority, often implying betrayal of one's own side.

FAQs

What does it mean to call someone a "stool pigeon"?

Calling someone a "stool pigeon" means they are acting as an informer, especially for the police, often betraying others for personal gain or to avoid punishment. It's a derogatory term.

When is it appropriate to use the term "stool pigeon"?

The term "stool pigeon" is appropriate in informal contexts, such as conversations or fictional narratives, where you want to convey a sense of betrayal or disrepute associated with informing. Avoid using it in formal or professional settings.

What are some alternative terms for "stool pigeon"?

You can use alternatives like "informant", "snitch", or "rat", depending on the level of formality and the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "stool pigeon" considered offensive?

Yes, "stool pigeon" is generally considered a derogatory and offensive term, as it implies betrayal and disloyalty. Use it with caution and be mindful of the context and your audience.