1 B2 idiomatic informal
To investigate a place or situation casually or covertly, looking for information or opportunities.
"Several rival companies had been sniffing around, trying to poach our best developers."
inseparable
sniff around
B2 informal inseparable intransitive
To investigate or search in an area, especially looking for opportunities, problems, or secret information.
In plain English
To look around a place or situation carefully, like a dog sniffing for a scent, because you're searching for something.
What does "sniff around" mean?
3 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 idiomatic informal
To show interest in acquiring something (a business, property, or person) without making a formal move.
"Investors have been sniffing around the startup for months but haven't made an offer yet."
inseparable
3 A2 neutral
(Literal) Of an animal: to move around sniffing the ground or air.
"The dog spent half an hour sniffing around the garden before finally settling down."
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To sniff (use the nose to smell) while moving around an area — like an animal tracking a scent.
Actually means
To look around a place or situation carefully, like a dog sniffing for a scent, because you're searching for something.
Usage tip
Often used when someone is investigating a business opportunity, scandal, or suspicious activity. Slightly negative connotation — implies unwanted or intrusive interest. Common in journalism and business contexts.
Words that pair with "sniff around"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
for clues for deals around the company for weaknesses investigators journalists
How to conjugate "sniff around"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
sniff around
I/you/we/they
3rd person
sniffs around
he/she/it
Past simple
sniffed around
yesterday
Past participle
sniffed around
have + pp
-ing form
sniffing around
continuous
Hear "sniff around" in the wild
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Other ways to say "sniff around"
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