What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
tiptoing
Example
She tiptoed into the room so as not to wake the baby. [tiptoed: past tense]
Example
He was tiptoeing around the house to avoid waking his parents. [tiptoeing: present participle]
furtively
Example
He looked around furtively before slipping the money into his pocket. [furtively: adverb]
Example
The cat crept furtively towards the birdcage. [furtively: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Tiptoeing is more commonly used than furtively in everyday language. Tiptoeing is a common verb used to describe a quiet and cautious walk, while furtively is less common and used more in formal writing or storytelling.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between tiptoing and furtively?
Furtively is typically associated with a more formal tone, while tiptoeing is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.
