on the sly
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Adverb:
- In a secretive, furtive, or stealthy manner: The phrase "on the sly" describes an action done secretly to avoid being noticed, often because it is considered wrong, improper, or against the rules.
Usage
- "On the sly" is an adverbial phrase used to modify a verb, indicating the manner in which an action is performed. It implies deception or concealment.
- It is typically used in informal contexts.
Examples
- Adverb:
- He was eating cookies on the sly while his mother wasn't looking.
- They met on the sly to plan the surprise party.
- The employee checked his personal email on the sly during work hours.
Advanced Usage
- The phrase often carries a connotation of doing something that is mildly mischievous, forbidden, or socially disapproved.
- She had a cigarette on the sly, even though she was trying to quit.
Variants and Related Words
- Slyly (adverb): In a cunning or deceitful manner. (e.g., )
- Sly (adjective): Having or showing a cunning and deceitful nature. (e.g., )
Synonyms
- Secretly: In a way that is kept hidden or not known by others.
- Furtively: In a way that attempts to avoid notice or attention, typically because of guilt or a belief that discovery would lead to trouble.
- Stealthily: In a cautious and surreptitious manner, so as not to be seen or heard.
- Covertly: Without being openly acknowledged or displayed; secretly.
Related Phrases
- On the quiet: An informal phrase with a very similar meaning to "on the sly," implying doing something secretly.
- He made the deal on the quiet.
- Behind someone's back: Secretly and deceitfully, especially in a way that is disloyal.
- She criticized him behind his back. (This has a stronger negative connotation of betrayal.)
Idioms
- While "on the sly" is itself an idiomatic phrase, it is not typically part of a larger, fixed idiom. Its meaning is contained within the phrase itself.
Adverb
- in a furtive manner
- the soldiers were furtively crawling through the night