What are the definitions of “sniff around”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 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.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “sniff around”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb sniff around is to look around or investigate to find something better or to evaluate the quality of something. It is often used when someone is trying to find a better deal, gather information, or explore new opportunities.
What are the different verb forms of “sniff around”?
| Root Verb | sniff around |
| Third Person Singular Present | sniffs around |
| Present Participle | sniffing around |
| Simple Past | sniffed around |
| Past Participle | sniffed 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.
Example
They are sniffing around the market to find a good investment.
Example
Yesterday, I sniffed around the store to find the best deal on a new phone.
Example
She had sniffed around several companies before finding the perfect job.
What kind of phrasal verb is “sniff around”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“sniff around” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
He sniffed around the store to find the best deal.
Example
She sniffed around the neighborhood to find a good place to eat.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“sniff around” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
He sniffed around the store to find the best deal.
Example
She sniffed around the neighborhood to find a good place to eat.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “sniff around”?
To investigate or gather information, often discreetly or secretly.
Example
The reporter sniffed around to find out the truth about the scandal.
Good things to know
Does “sniff around” have an informal or formal tone?
Sniff around is an informal phrasal verb that is commonly used in everyday conversations. It is not typically used in formal writing or professional settings. Instead, more formal alternatives like 'investigate,' 'explore,' or 'search' can be used.
