What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
lurk
Example
The thief was lurking in the shadows, waiting for the right moment to strike. [lurking: verb]
Example
I had a feeling of unease that seemed to lurk beneath the surface. [lurk: verb]
Example
There was a sense of danger lurking in the dark alley. [lurking: present participle]
hide
Example
The children were playing hide and seek in the park. [hide: verb]
Example
She tried to hide her disappointment when she didn't get the job. [hide: verb]
Example
He was hiding his true feelings about the situation. [hiding: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Hide is more commonly used than lurk in everyday language. Hide is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while lurk is less common and often used in more specific or negative contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between lurk and hide?
Both lurk and hide can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but hide is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of formality levels.
