snitch

Everyday

1. To tell a teacher, parent or other adult that someone has done something wrong (informal and often unkind). tree →
2. A person who tells on others. tree →
3. To steal something small: "snitch a biscuit". tree →

In the lessons

In school life, children may call someone a "snitch" for telling on them. In safety lessons, pupils learn the difference: telling an adult to keep someone safe is not snitching, it is the right thing. In Harry Potter, the Golden Snitch is a small flying ball in Quidditch. Phrases: snitch on someone.

Examples

• He snitched on his sister for eating the cake. tree →
• Nobody likes being called a snitch. tree →
• Telling a teacher about bullying is not snitching. tree →
• She snitched a cookie from the jar. tree →
• In Quidditch, the Seeker tries to catch the Snitch. tree →
• Do not snitch about small things, but always tell about danger. tree →

Note

Informal word; in class say "tell on" or "report". Important: if someone is hurt, in danger or being bullied, telling a trusted adult is always right, even if someone calls it snitching. Telling just to get someone in trouble is different from telling to keep someone safe.