Clandestine Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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clandestine
clan-des-tine
Definition
secretive
kept secret or done secretively, especially because illicit
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| clandestine |
Used to describe activities that are kept secret because they are illegal or unauthorized. Often refers to operations, meetings, or organizations that are hidden from authorities or the public.
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| secret |
Used for anything that is kept hidden from others. This can range from personal information to confidential business plans. It is a broad term and not necessarily associated with illegal or unauthorized actions.
|
| covert |
Refers to actions or operations that are done secretly, often to avoid detection. Commonly used in a military or espionage context where the primary goal is to stay hidden from enemies or rivals.
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| undercover |
Generally used in law enforcement where officers conceal their true identity to gather information or catch criminals. It implies a temporary and purposeful disguise.
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Examples of usage
- they planned the operation in a clandestine manner
- clandestine meetings with foreign diplomats
Translations
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Quick facts about “clandestine”
Clandestine is a 3-syllable adjective (clan-des-tine). It is pronounced /kɫænˈdɛstɪn/ in American English and /klændˈɛstɪn/ in British English. On finesentence.com it has 1 meaning, 3 synonyms, and translations into 21 languages. It ranks #15,430 among the most common English words.
Origin of 'clandestine'
The word 'clandestine' originated from the Latin word 'clandestinus', which means 'hidden, secret'. It has been used in English since the mid-16th century to describe things that are kept secret or done in a secretive manner, especially if they are illicit or unauthorized.
See also: clandestinely, clandestineness.