Word
smuggling
Phoneticssmug·gling
US/ˈsməɡəɫɪŋ/
UK/smˈʌɡlɪŋ/
Uncountable noun
Definition
n. the act of taking things into or out of a place secretly because it is against the law.
n. the clandestine and illegal conveyance of goods or people across a boundary, typically to avoid customs duties or legal prohibitions.
Examples
“Smuggling is a serious crime in many countries.”
“The border guards caught him smuggling gold bars in his suitcase.”
“Historical smuggling routes often followed the rugged coastline, allowing merchants to bypass strict port regulations and heavy taxation.”
Examples
simple
“Smuggling is a serious crime in many countries.”
contextual
“The border guards caught him smuggling gold bars in his suitcase.”
complex
“Historical smuggling routes often followed the rugged coastline, allowing merchants to bypass strict port regulations and heavy taxation.”
Usage
Often used as an uncountable noun to describe the activity, but can be countable when referring to specific instances.
Real-World Examples
“Cases in Austria have also revealed how the hawala system is bound up with people smuggling and violence.” “This smuggling ring has further tentacles, as another individual was arrested in connection with this case.” Synonyms
Word family
VERB
NOUN
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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englishreference.com/q/smuggling