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sneak out

A2 informal inseparable intransitive
In simple words

To leave somewhere without letting anyone see you go, usually because you're not supposed to leave.

Literal meaning: To sneak (move secretly) while going outward — largely transparent.

Meanings

1 A2 informal

To leave a place secretly, especially a home or institution, without permission.

"He used to sneak out of his bedroom window at midnight to meet his friends."

Grammar: inseparable
2 A2 informal

To leave a social event or meeting quietly and early to avoid drawing attention.

"The speech was so long that several guests sneaked out before the dinner was over."

Grammar: inseparable
3 B1 informal

To take something out of a place secretly and without permission.

"She sneaked a copy of the report out of the office to show her friend."

Grammar: separable
Usage notes

Very commonly used about teenagers leaving home at night without parents' knowledge. Also used figuratively for leaving a meeting or event early without being noticed.

Commonly used with

at night after curfew early back door window without permission

Forms

Base
sneak out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
sneaks out
he/she/it
Past simple
sneaked out
yesterday
Past participle
sneaked out
have + pp
-ing form
sneaking out
continuous

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Synonyms

slip out creep out steal away sneak off escape

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