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Phrasal verbs "nose around" vs "sniff around"

Differences between nose around and sniff around

Nose around and sniff around are similar in meaning, but nose around is more commonly used to describe someone who is searching for something or trying to find out information, while sniff around is more commonly used to describe an animal that is using its sense of smell to explore an area.

Meanings and Definitions: nose around vs sniff around

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Nose around

  • 1Look around for evidence.

    The boss keeps NOSING AROUND our office when we are out at lunch.

Sniff around

  • 1Look around to see how good something is or to try to find something better.

    I SNIFFED AROUND to see if I could find a better deal.

Usage Examples: nose around, sniff around in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

nose around

Example

I don't like it when people nose around my personal belongings.

Example

She noses around the office when everyone is at lunch.

sniff around

Example

She always sniffs around for the best prices before making a purchase.

Example

He sniffs around the neighborhood to find the best coffee shop.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Nose around

snoop around

To search or investigate in a nosy or intrusive way.

Example

I caught my neighbor snooping around my backyard and asked him to leave.

poke around

To search or explore in a casual or curious way.

Example

She decided to poke around the antique shop to see if she could find any hidden treasures.

dig around

To search or rummage through something in a thorough or persistent way.

Example

He spent hours digging around in his closet to find his old baseball glove.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Sniff around

explore by scent

To use one's sense of smell to investigate or discover something.

Example

The dog was exploring by scent and led us to a hidden trail in the woods.

nose about

To explore or investigate in a curious or nosy way.

Example

The cat was nosing about the house, trying to find a cozy spot to nap.

sniff out

To detect or find something by using one's sense of smell.

Example

The police dog was able to sniff out the drugs hidden in the car.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “nose”

Phrasal Verbs with “sniff”

Differences in nose around vs sniff around: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: nose around or sniff around?

In everyday conversation, nose around is more common than sniff around. Nose around is often used when someone is trying to find something or gather information, while sniff around is more commonly used to describe an animal's behavior.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of nose around and sniff around

Nose around and sniff around are both informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations. They are not appropriate for formal settings like business or academic contexts.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of nose around and sniff around

The tone of nose around and sniff around can differ based on context. Nose around can carry a negative connotation if someone is being nosy or intrusive, while sniff around can have a playful or curious tone when describing an animal's behavior.

nose around & sniff around: Synonyms and Antonyms

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