secretively

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Word: Secretively

Part of Speech: Adverb

Definition: The word "secretively" means to do something in a way that is hidden or not meant to be seen or known by others. When someone acts secretively, they prefer to keep things private or concealed.

Usage Instructions:

• Use "secretively" when describing actions that are done quietly or discreetly, especially when the person wants to keep something hidden from others.
• It often describes behaviors or actions that are not open, honest, or transparent.

Example Sentence:

• The teacher raised a hand to him, slightly and secretively, because he was her favorite.

Advanced Usage:

• You can use "secretively" in more complex sentences where you want to emphasize the hidden nature of an action. For example:
  • She whispered secretively to her friend during the meeting, not wanting the others to overhear their plans.

Word Variants:

• Secretive (adjective): This describes someone who tends to hide their thoughts or feelings. For example: "He was a secretive person who rarely shared his opinions."
• Secret (noun): Refers to something that is kept hidden or unknown. For example: "She shared a secret with her best friend."

Different Meanings:

• While "secretively" mainly refers to actions taken in a hidden manner, it can also imply a sense of intrigue or mystery surrounding the action.

Synonyms:

• Discreetly
• Covertly
• Stealthily
• Clandestinely
• Slyly

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• Keep it under wraps: This means to keep something secret or hidden. For example: "They decided to keep the wedding plans under wraps until the big day."
• In the shadows: This idiom means to be in a hidden or secretive situation.

Academic

Adverb

1. in a secretive manner; with a preference for secrecy
   • the teacher raised a hand to him, slightly and secretively, because he was her favorite