What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
smuggle
Example
The man was caught trying to smuggle drugs across the border. [smuggle: verb]
Example
The prisoners were caught with smuggled cell phones in their cells. [smuggled: past participle]
traffic
Example
The police busted a human trafficking ring operating in the city. [trafficking: noun]
Example
The wildlife traffickers were arrested for smuggling exotic animals. [traffickers: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Traffic is a more commonly used word than smuggle in everyday language. Traffic is versatile and can be used in various contexts, while smuggle is less common and more specific to illegal import/export activities.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between smuggle and traffic?
Both smuggle and traffic are associated with criminal activity and are therefore informal words. However, smuggle may be considered more formal due to its association with legal terminology and international trade laws.
