What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
bootleg
Example
He was arrested for bootlegging alcohol from his basement. [bootleg: verb]
Example
They bought a bootleg DVD of the latest movie from a street vendor. [bootleg: adjective]
smuggle
Example
The man was caught trying to smuggle drugs across the border. [smuggle: verb]
Example
She was involved in a smuggling operation, transporting undocumented immigrants. [smuggling: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Smuggle is more commonly used than bootleg in everyday language. Smuggle is a term that is frequently heard in news reports and discussions about illegal activities, while bootleg is less commonly used and often associated with specific contexts like illegal alcohol or unauthorized copies of media.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between bootleg and smuggle?
Both bootleg and smuggle are informal terms that are used in casual conversations or discussions about illegal activities. However, smuggle may be considered slightly more formal due to its broader usage and association with serious crimes like drug trafficking or human smuggling.
