smuggling
word · lemma: smuggle
Definition
The act of secretly and illegally moving goods or people from one place or country to another, often to avoid taxes or laws.
Usage & Nuances
Usually used in legal, news, or police contexts. Common phrases: 'drug smuggling', 'smuggling operation', 'caught for smuggling'. Refers to both goods (drugs, weapons, cigarettes, art) and people ('human smuggling'). Do not confuse with 'trafficking' (often involves exploitation).
Example Sentences
The police arrested him for smuggling rare animals.
basic
There are strict laws against smuggling in this country.
basic
Smuggling drugs is a serious crime.
basic
He was caught smuggling cigarettes across the border late at night.
natural
Customs officers stopped a smuggling ring at the airport.
natural
Stories about smuggling always make the news around here.
natural