Did you receive an invitation for a 'sneak peek' at the new BMW model? This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression.
Meaning
The expression 'sneak peek' means you get a brief glimpse at something currently unavailable to the general public. The term can apply to products like shoes or cars. It ca also refer to media and entertainment, such as music and movies, or anything that's not yet on the market.
You could use a 'sneak peek' to describe a preview of a band's new studio album or music video. Or, you could use 'sneak peek' to describe a teaser trailer for a movie. A 'sneak peek' is also used in the marketing industry, where a female actor bends over to expose more skin on her legs.
Example Usage
"Let's take a sneak peek inside the next episode of 'Rick & Morty' and see what they get up to next week."
"I'll give you a sneak peek of what to expect. But you can't tell anyone, or I could lose my job, okay?"
"I'm going to the dealership for a sneak peek at next year's model. Do you want to come along for the ride?"
"This is just a sneak peek at the new financial system. Crypto isn't going to be it. It's going to be central bank digital currencies that come next."
"Is there any chance we could get a sneak peek at it before it hits the shelves this summer? We've been waiting on this book for years."
"Do you guys want to get a sneak peek at the new Ferrari model? Someone leaked the designs on Reddit."
Origin
Language experts are at a loss to explain the origin of the "sneak peek." They cannot pinpoint when it entered the English lexicon or who coined the use of the term. Since it isn't grammatically correct, we can assume that it comes from modern language, when grammar rules were more relaxed.
However, some believe it originates from the marketing boom of the 1980s and 1990s, where companies and brands would advertise a 'sneak peek' at a product. It may also derive from the use of 'sneak peek' in media to describe a quick look at an upcoming feature.
The first entry of 'sneak peek' into the Urban Dictionary is in 2010.
Phrases Similar to Sneak Peek
- Brief glimpse.
- Special preview.
Phrases Opposite to Sneak Peek
- Premiere.
What is the Correct Saying?
- Sneak peek.
Ways People May Say Sneak Peek Incorrectly
A 'sneak peek' doesn't refer to anything illegal. It's a quick glimpse into something that's not available yet. Using 'sneak peek' to describe sneaking around or illicit activity is incorrect. 'Sneak peek' is grammatically incorrect. However, it's a generally accepted mistake. ‘Sneak peak’ is the incorrect spelling of the expression.
Acceptable Ways to Phrase Sneak Peek
You can use 'sneak peek' to describe a preview of something. It's suitable for professional and social use. Use it at work to describe a brief glimpse for your clients into a new product launch. Use it at home to give your family a 'sneak peek' of the new home you're moving to.
A 'sneak peek' is a great way to excite people into thinking they're getting a special preview, making them feel important. 'Sneak peek' is suitable for text-based communications when you want to give someone a preview or glimpse into something. It's also useful in verbal communications to get people hyped about something.