Differences between sneak out and sneak up on

Sneak out means to leave a place secretly or without being noticed, while sneak up on means to approach someone or something quietly and unexpectedly.

Meanings and Definitions: sneak out vs sneak up on

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Sneak out

1Depart furtively.
Although the thieves tried to SNEAK OUT after dark, we were ready for them.

Sneak up on

1Approach someone furtively.
Dave tried to SNEAK UP ON the guard, but was seen anyway.

Usage Examples: sneak out, sneak up on in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

sneak out

Example

She always sneaks out of the office early on Fridays.

Example

He sneaks out of the house when his parents are asleep.

sneak up on

Example

The cat likes to sneak up on unsuspecting birds.

Example

He sneaks up on his friends to scare them.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Sneak out

slip away

To leave a place quietly or unnoticed.

Example

She decided to slip away from the party early to avoid the crowd.

make a run for it

To escape or leave quickly and suddenly.

Example

When the fire alarm went off, everyone made a run for it and evacuated the building.

take off

To leave quickly or suddenly.

Example

He had to take off from work early to attend his daughter's school play.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Sneak up on

catch off guard

To surprise or startle someone by doing something unexpected.

Example

The loud noise caught her off guard and made her jump.

creep up on

To approach someone or something quietly and unexpectedly.

Example

The cat crept up on the bird and caught it by surprise.

surprise attack

An attack that is sudden and unexpected.

Example

The army launched a surprise attack on the enemy's camp and won the battle.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “sneak”

sneak up on

Phrasal Verbs with “out”

clean out
rule out
see out
wash out
sell out

Phrasal Verbs with “up on”

Differences in sneak out vs sneak up on: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: sneak out or sneak up on?

In daily conversation, people use sneak out more often than sneak up on. This is because sneak out is used for more common situations such as leaving a party or sneaking away from work. Sneak up on is less common and usually used in specific situations where someone or something is approached quietly and unexpectedly.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of sneak out and sneak up on

Sneak out and sneak up on are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of sneak out and sneak up on

The tone of sneak out and sneak up on can differ based on context. Sneak out often carries a secretive or mischievous tone when related to leaving a place without being noticed, while sneak up on typically has a cautious or playful tone, especially when referring to surprising someone or something.

sneak out & sneak up on: Synonyms and Antonyms

Sneak out

Synonyms

slip out
creep out
steal away
slink out
sneak away
depart secretly

Antonyms

arrive
enter
appear
show up
come in
sneak in

Sneak up on

Synonyms

approach stealthily
creep up on
slink up to
steal up on
move quietly towards

Antonyms