furtively

Thân thiện

The detective glanced furtively over his shoulder before slipping into the alley.

Definition

Adverb: In a secretive, stealthy, or sly manner, suggesting an attempt to avoid notice or attention.

Usage

The adverb "furtively" describes how an action is performed—with a hidden or sneaky quality. It implies the actor wishes to remain unseen or undiscovered. It is typically used to modify verbs of movement, observation, or communication.

Examples

• The child glanced furtively at the cookie jar while his mother's back was turned.
• He moved furtively through the dark alley, checking over his shoulder every few steps.
• She passed the note furtively under the desk during the exam.

Advanced Usage

• "to act/look around furtively": This common collocation emphasizes the cautious, secretive nature of observing one's surroundings.
  • The spy acted furtively, constantly scanning the crowded plaza for his contact.

Variants and Related Words

• Furtive (adjective): Characterized by stealth or secrecy.
  • He cast a furtive glance at the documents on the desk.

Synonyms

• Secretly
• Stealthily
• Slyly
• Surreptitiously
• Covertly

Antonyms

• Openly
• Boldly
• Publicly
• Overtly

Học thuật

Adverb

1. in a furtive manner
   • the soldiers were furtively crawling through the night

Từ đồng nghĩa

• on the sly