Difference Wiki

Sneaked vs. Snuck: What's the Difference?

Edited by Huma Saeed || By Sumera Saeed || Updated on October 26, 2023
"Sneaked" and "snuck" are both past tense forms of "sneak"; "sneaked" is traditionally correct, while "snuck" is a more informal, colloquial variant.

Key Differences

The English language often presents variations in verb forms, and "sneaked" and "snuck" exemplify this phenomenon. Both are past tense forms of the verb "sneak," which means to move quietly or secretly. Traditionally, "sneaked" is the standard past tense and past participle form.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 26, 2023
"Snuck," while considered nonstandard in earlier years, has gained significant traction in American English. It's a more informal variant that has found its way into everyday speech and even many written contexts. However, purists and some style guides might still prefer "sneaked" over "snuck."
Sumera Saeed
Oct 26, 2023
Usage varies based on region and context. In the U.S., "snuck" is widely accepted and frequently used, even in some formal writing. Meanwhile, "sneaked" tends to be more common in British English. Both forms communicate the same action but cater to different audiences and contexts.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 26, 2023
Despite the debates over which form is "correct," it's essential to recognize that language evolves. "Snuck" is a testament to this evolution, showcasing how colloquial forms can become integrated into standard usage. Whether one chooses "sneaked" or "snuck" depends on the desired tone, audience, and personal or organizational style preferences.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 26, 2023
While "sneaked" might appear in more formal or traditional contexts, "snuck" embodies the dynamic nature of language, demonstrating that even long-established norms can shift over time.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 26, 2023
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Comparison Chart

Definition

Past tense form of "sneak"
Informal past tense variant of "sneak"
Sumera Saeed
Oct 26, 2023

Origin

Traditional form
American English variant
Sumera Saeed
Oct 26, 2023

Usage Context

More formal or traditional
Informal, colloquial
Sumera Saeed
Oct 26, 2023

Preference in Regions

More common in British English
More accepted in American English
Sumera Saeed
Oct 26, 2023

Historical Acceptance

Historically considered the "correct" form
Historically seen as nonstandard, but now widely accepted
Sumera Saeed
Oct 26, 2023
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Sneaked and Snuck Definitions

Sneaked

Introduced or inserted stealthily.
He sneaked a note into her pocket.
Janet White
Oct 26, 2023

Snuck

Introduced or brought quietly.
He snuck a toy into school.
Harlon Moss
Oct 26, 2023

Sneaked

Moved quietly or secretively.
He sneaked into the room unnoticed.
Huma Saeed
Oct 26, 2023

Snuck

Took or obtained surreptitiously.
She snuck some cookies from the jar.
Janet White
Oct 26, 2023

Sneaked

Acted or proceeded in a cautious or surreptitious manner.
They sneaked around the corner to avoid being seen.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 26, 2023
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Snuck

Infiltrated or slipped in unnoticed.
The thoughts snuck into his mind uninvited.
Sara Rehman
Oct 26, 2023

Sneaked

Crept or went stealthily.
She sneaked a peek at her birthday presents.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 26, 2023

Snuck

Acted in a secretive or sneaky manner.
They snuck up behind us and surprised us.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 26, 2023

Sneaked

Infiltrated or entered without notice.
The cat sneaked in through the open window.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 26, 2023

Snuck

Moved stealthily or secretly.
He snuck out of the house late at night.
Huma Saeed
Oct 26, 2023

Sneaked

To go or move in a quiet, stealthy way.
Sumera Saeed
Mar 19, 2022

Snuck

A past tense and a past participle of sneak. See Usage Note at sneak.
Sumera Saeed
Mar 19, 2022

Snuck

Simple past tense and past participle of sneak
I snuck into the theater because the movie had already started.
Sumera Saeed
Mar 19, 2022

FAQs

Can I use "snuck" in an academic paper?

Check your style guide, but many now accept "snuck" given its widespread use.
Janet White
Oct 26, 2023

Are both "sneaked" and "snuck" correct?

Yes, both are used as past tense forms of "sneak," though their acceptance varies by context.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 26, 2023

Is "snuck" accepted in formal writing?

While it's become more accepted, especially in American English, some style guides might prefer "sneaked."
Sumera Saeed
Oct 26, 2023

Which is more common in the UK?

"Sneaked" is typically more common in British English.
Harlon Moss
Oct 26, 2023

How did "snuck" originate?

"Snuck" evolved in American English as an irregular past tense form, similar to "stuck" from "stick."
Aimie Carlson
Oct 26, 2023

If I'm unsure, which should I use?

"Sneaked" is traditionally safer, but consider your audience and context.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 26, 2023

Can I switch between the two in writing?

For consistency, it's better to stick to one form in a single piece of writing.
Harlon Moss
Oct 26, 2023

Does every English-speaking region use "snuck"?

While it's common in American English, its use varies in other regions.
Sara Rehman
Oct 26, 2023

How do I decide which to use?

Consider the tone, audience, and regional preferences.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 26, 2023

Which is older, "sneaked" or "snuck"?

"Sneaked" is the traditional form, while "snuck" is a newer, colloquial variant.
Huma Saeed
Oct 26, 2023

Are there other verbs like "sneak" with two past tense forms?

Yes, "dive" has "dived" and "dove," and "hang" has "hanged" and "hung," depending on context.
Sara Rehman
Oct 26, 2023

Have classic authors used "snuck"?

"Snuck" rose in the 20th century, so it's less common in older literature.
Sara Rehman
Oct 26, 2023

Is one more correct than the other?

Both are correct, but "sneaked" is the traditional form.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 26, 2023

Does the meaning change with the form used?

No, both convey the same action of moving secretly or stealthily.
Harlon Moss
Oct 26, 2023

Is "snuck" informal?

Originally, it was more informal, but its acceptance has broadened over time.
Harlon Moss
Oct 26, 2023

Is "snuck" slang?

It started as a colloquial variant, but its widespread use has made it mainstream in many contexts.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 26, 2023

Do dictionaries include "snuck"?

Yes, modern dictionaries list both "sneaked" and "snuck" as past tense forms.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 26, 2023

Which sounds more formal?

"Sneaked" often sounds more formal than "snuck."
Sara Rehman
Oct 26, 2023

Is "snuck" here to stay?

Given its widespread use and acceptance, it appears to be a lasting part of the language.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 26, 2023

Why has "snuck" become popular?

Its rise might be attributed to its phonetic similarity to other verbs and its ease of use.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 26, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sumera Saeed
Sumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
Edited by
Huma Saeed
Huma is a renowned researcher acclaimed for her innovative work in Difference Wiki. Her dedication has led to key breakthroughs, establishing her prominence in academia. Her contributions continually inspire and guide her field.

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