Snitch

A 'snitch' is a person who secretly informs on someone else, typically to the authorities or someone in a position of power, about their wrongdoing or misbehavior. This act of informing is often viewed negatively, as it violates a code of silence or loyalty within a group. The term implies a betrayal of trust and is often associated with cowardice, disloyalty, or self-serving motives. The information provided by a snitch can range from minor infractions to serious crimes, and the consequences for the person snitched on can vary considerably depending on the severity of the alleged offense and the repercussions it has. The act is therefore condemned by almost all groups as harmful to the social dynamic.

Snitch meaning with examples

• During the game, Mark snitched to the coach that Sarah was using illegal moves, earning the team a victory but causing a rift between Mark and his teammates. He was ostracized for his behaviour, and for being a snitch. Many people believe that it is better to lose honourably then win dishonestly. Mark went to his room and was never spoken to again at the team function.
• The new kid at school, desperate to fit in, snitched on a group of students who were smoking behind the gymnasium. While the school administration was pleased, the other kids viewed him as untrustworthy and a snitch, a label he couldn't shake off for the rest of the year. People find this behaviour to be very dishonourable.
• In a gang culture, becoming a snitch is the ultimate betrayal, often carrying severe consequences. The police used an informant, a former gang member who had turned snitch, to gain information that led to the arrest of the gang leaders, although the informant was considered scum by all other gang members.
• When the employee snitched to their boss about their colleagues consistently arriving late to work, it improved productivity, but fostered animosity within the workplace. This behaviour has led to a constant culture of suspicion and distrust. The employees had considered finding a new job, as their colleagues made their life very difficult.
• The investigative journalist became a snitch in the eyes of government officials when he revealed classified information about their corrupt dealings, causing public outrage and a legal battle. The truth about this behaviour has come out, which made the government officials seem horrible.