Definition

Adverb 1. In a secretive manner; with a preference for secrecy: Acting in a way that is intended to keep knowledge or information hidden from others, often suggesting stealth or discretion.

Usage

The adverb "secretively" describes how an action is performed. It modifies verbs to indicate that the action is done in a concealed, furtive, or private way, showing a tendency toward secrecy.

Examples

• The two diplomats spoke secretively in the corner of the room.
• She glanced secretively over her shoulder before unlocking the drawer.
• He passed the note secretively under the table.
• The teacher raised a hand to him, slightly and secretively, because he was her favorite.

Advanced Usage

• "To act secretively": To behave in a way that hides one's intentions or actions.
  • The agent had to act secretively to avoid detection.
• "To live secretively": To maintain a very private or hidden lifestyle.
  • The reclusive author lived secretively in the countryside.

Variants and Related Words

• Secretive (adjective): Inclined to keep secrets or to conceal feelings, intentions, or information.
  • He was very secretive about his past.
• Secrecy (noun): The state of being kept hidden or private.
  • The project was shrouded in secrecy.

Synonyms

• Furtively: In a way that attempts to avoid notice or attention; sneakily.
• Slyly: In a cunning and deceitful manner.
• Covertly: In a way that is not openly acknowledged or displayed; secretly.
• Surreptitiously: In a way that is kept secret, especially because it would not be approved of.

Antonyms

• Openly: Without concealment, deception, or pretense; frankly.
• Publicly: In a manner that is open to or shared by all the people.
• Candidly: In an honest and straightforward way.

Related Phrases and Idioms

• Behind closed doors: In private, away from public view (conceptually related to acting secretively).
  • The negotiations happened behind closed doors.
• On the sly: Secretly, especially in a way that is dishonest or disapproved of.
  • He was seeing her on the sly.

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