What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
eavesdrop
Example
I couldn't help but eavesdrop on their conversation since they were speaking so loudly. [eavesdrop: verb]
Example
She accidentally eavesdropped on her boss's phone call while walking by his office. [eavesdropped: past tense]
spy
Example
The detective was hired to spy on the suspect and gather evidence. [spy: verb]
Example
He worked as a spy for the government, gathering intelligence on foreign countries. [spy: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Eavesdrop is less commonly used than spy in everyday language. Eavesdrop is often associated with accidental or unintentional behavior, while spy is more commonly associated with intentional and purposeful behavior.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between eavesdrop and spy?
Both eavesdrop and spy are typically associated with an informal or negative connotation. However, spy can also be used in a formal context when referring to government or military intelligence gathering.
