What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
creep
Example
The cat crept up on the mouse, trying not to make a sound. [crept: past tense]
Example
I don't want to creep around the house and wake anyone up. [creep: verb]
tiptoe
Example
She tiptoed into the room, hoping not to wake the baby. [tiptoed: past tense]
Example
He walked on tiptoe to avoid creaking the floorboards. [tiptoe: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Tiptoe is more commonly used than creep in everyday language. Tiptoe is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while creep is less common and often associated with negative connotations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between creep and tiptoe?
Both creep and tiptoe are informal words, but tiptoe can be used in more formal contexts than creep.
