What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
pussyfooting
Example
Stop pussyfooting around and just tell me what you really think. [pussyfooting: verb]
Example
She's been pussyfooting around the issue for weeks, never giving a straight answer. [pussyfooting: present participle]
sneaking
Example
He was caught sneaking out of the house after curfew. [sneaking: present participle]
Example
She's been sneaking snacks from the pantry when no one is looking. [sneaking: gerund]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sneaking is more commonly used than pussyfooting in everyday language. Sneaking is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while pussyfooting is less common and may be seen as more formal or literary.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between pussyfooting and sneaking?
While pussyfooting is typically associated with a more formal or literary tone, sneaking is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts, allowing it to be used in a wider range of situations.