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: present participle]
Example
A sense of danger lurked in the dark alley, making me feel uneasy. [lurked: past tense]
prowl
Example
The cat was prowling around the house, looking for its prey. [prowling: present participle]
Example
The detective was prowling the streets, searching for clues to solve the case. [prowled: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Lurk and prowl are less commonly used words in everyday language. Lurk is more commonly used in contexts related to danger or threat, while prowl is more commonly used in contexts related to animal behavior or search and exploration.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between lurk and prowl?
Both lurk and prowl are informal words, but lurk is more commonly associated with negative connotations and danger, making it less appropriate for formal contexts.
