surreptitiously
Definition
- Adverb:
- Done in a secret, stealthy, or clandestine manner: Describes an action performed with the intention of avoiding notice or detection, often because it is unauthorized, improper, or would cause disapproval if observed.
Usage
The adverb "surreptitiously" modifies verbs to describe how an action is carried out. It emphasizes secrecy and caution. - It is typically used in formal or literary contexts to describe actions like watching, listening, taking, or moving. - It often implies a sense of guilt, mischief, or the need for concealment.
Examples
- Adverb:
- The spy surreptitiously photographed the documents. (The spy photographed the documents in a secret, stealthy way.)
- She surreptitiously slipped the note into his pocket. (She secretly placed the note into his pocket to avoid being seen.)
- He was watching her surreptitiously as she waited in the hotel lobby. (He was observing her in a secretive, furtive manner.)
Advanced Usage
- "To act surreptitiously": To behave in a secretive or underhanded way.
- The agent had to act surreptitiously to avoid compromising the mission.
- "Surreptitiously obtained": Acquired through secret or unauthorized means.
- The journalist published details from a surreptitiously obtained report.
Variants and Related Words
- Surreptitious (adjective): Characterized by secrecy or stealth.
- They had a surreptitious meeting in the back room.
- Surreptitiousness (noun): The quality of being surreptitious.
- The surreptitiousness of his movements made everyone suspicious.
Synonyms
- Secretly: In a way intended to be kept private or unknown.
- Stealthily: In a cautious and quiet manner to avoid detection.
- Clandestinely: In a secret and often illegal or illicit way.
- Furtively: In a way that attempts to avoid notice, often suggesting guilt or shyness.
- Covertly: In a way that is not openly acknowledged or displayed.
Antonyms
- Openly: Without concealment or deception; publicly.
- Overtly: In a way that is done or shown openly.
- Publicly: In a manner observed by or open to the public.
Adverb
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in a surreptitious manner
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he was watching her surreptitiously as she waited in the hotel lobby
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