sneak preview

Meaning

A 'sneak preview' is an opportunity to see a movie, television show, or product before it is officially released to the general public. It is often used as a marketing tool to build excitement and gather early feedback.

Examples

• The theater is offering a sneak preview of the new blockbuster this Thursday.

  The theater is offering a sneak preview of the new blockbuster this Thursday.

• Journalists were invited to a sneak preview of the upcoming video game.

  Journalists were invited to a sneak preview of the upcoming video game.

• They showed a short sneak preview of the next season during the finale.

  They showed a short sneak preview of the next season during the finale.

• I was lucky enough to get tickets to a sneak preview of her new art exhibition.

  I was lucky enough to get tickets to a sneak preview of her new art exhibition.

• The director hosted a sneak preview for a small group of loyal fans.

  The director hosted a sneak preview for a small group of loyal fans.

Common Mistakes

• ✗ I saw a sneak review of the film.

  ✓ I saw a sneak preview of the film.

  A 'review' is an opinion or critique written after watching, whereas a 'preview' is an advance showing.

• ✗ They showed us a secret preview of the movie.

  ✓ They showed us a sneak preview of the movie.

  While it might be exclusive or private, 'sneak preview' is the standard, idiomatic set phrase used in the entertainment industry.

Related Expressions

Practice

• Subscribers get a ___ of the first episode a week before it airs on TV.

  💡 An early, exclusive showing.

  Show answer

  sneak preview

• The studio organized a ___ to test the audience's reaction to the ending.

  💡 A pre-release screening.

  Show answer

  sneak preview