creep in
To slowly move into a place or situation without anyone noticing, like a mistake quietly appearing in your work.
Meanings
For a person or animal to enter a place quietly and slowly, trying not to be noticed.
"She tried not to wake anyone as she crept in after midnight."
For something abstract (an error, a doubt, a habit) to gradually appear or develop without being immediately noticed.
"A few typos crept in during the final editing stage and made it to print."
For an unwanted feeling or influence to slowly begin to affect a situation.
"A sense of doubt began to creep in as the project continued to fall behind."
Frequently used figuratively for abstract things like errors, doubts, fatigue, or bad habits. Also used literally for people or animals moving quietly into a space. Common in both British and American English.
Commonly used with
Forms
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Synonyms
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