What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
bootlegged
Example
He was arrested for bootlegging alcohol and selling it without a license. [bootlegged: verb]
Example
The police confiscated a large collection of bootlegged DVDs from the suspect's house. [bootlegged: adjective]
smuggle
Example
The smugglers were caught trying to smuggle drugs across the border. [smuggle: verb]
Example
She was arrested for being involved in a human smuggling operation. [smuggling: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Smuggle is more commonly used than bootlegged in everyday language. Smuggle is a versatile term that can be applied to various illegal activities involving the transportation of goods or people. On the other hand, bootlegged is less common and is more specific to the illegal production or distribution of certain goods without proper authorization.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between bootlegged and smuggle?
Both bootlegged and smuggle are informal terms that are commonly used in casual conversations or informal writing. However, smuggle can also be used in more formal contexts, such as legal or news reports, due to its broader usage and wider range of applications.
