Furtively: meaning, definitions and examples

🕵️‍♂️

Add to dictionary

furtively

[ˈfərtɪvli ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

used to describe an action

Done in a way that is intended to escape notice; stealthily or surreptitiously.

Synonyms

covertly, secretly, stealthily, surreptitiously.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
furtively	Used when someone does something in a sneaky or sly manner, often because they are trying to avoid attention or because they feel guilty about it. He glanced furtively around the room before slipping the letter into his pocket She slipped out of the meeting furtively, hoping no one would notice
secretly	Used when an action or a piece of information is kept hidden from people, often without any particular negative or sneaky connotation. They secretly planned a surprise party for her birthday He secretly enjoyed romantic movies, though he never admitted it to his friends
stealthily	Used when describing movements or actions that are carried out quietly and carefully to avoid being noticed. Often used in contexts involving physical movement. The cat moved stealthily across the room, trying not to wake anyone The ninja stealthily climbed the wall to gain entry to the castle
surreptitiously	Used when an action is taken in a way that avoids notice or attention, often because the action is improper or not entirely honest. She surreptitiously checked her phone during the meeting He surreptitiously recorded their conversations to build his case
covertly	Appropriate for actions done in a concealed or secretive manner, especially with a purposeful intent of hiding the truth or intentions. Often used in contexts like espionage or military operations. The spies gathered covertly to exchange information She covertly recorded the conversation to use as evidence

Examples of usage

He glanced furtively over his shoulder.
She moved furtively through the dark alley.
The spy operated furtively to gather information.

^{Context #2 | Adverb}

used to describe an action

In a manner that suggests guilt or nervousness.

Synonyms

guiltily, nervously, suspiciously.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
furtively	When someone is trying to avoid being noticed or is acting secretive, often because they are doing something they shouldn't be. She glanced around furtively before slipping the note into his hand He moved furtively through the crowded room, hoping not to be seen
nervously	When someone feels anxious, uneasy, or worried, often due to an upcoming event or situation that requires courage or composure. She nervously prepared for her job interview He waited nervously for his turn to speak
guiltily	When someone feels or shows guilt, typically because they know they have done something wrong or are afraid of being judged. He looked at her guiltily after breaking the vase She laughed guiltily, knowing she had eaten the last cookie
suspiciously	When someone acts in a way that arouses mistrust or doubt, often implying that they may be hiding something or up to no good. He looked at her suspiciously when she arrived late The cashier watched the customer suspiciously as he lingered around the store

Examples of usage

He answered furtively, avoiding eye contact.
She furtively checked her phone during the meeting.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

'Furtively' comes from the Latin word 'furtivus', meaning ‘stolen’ or ‘secretive’.
The related word 'furtive' also reflects the same meaning and is commonly used in literature to describe sneaky behavior.
The root 'furt' in Latin means theft, connecting the concept of hiding actions to those who steal.

Literature

In classic literature, furtive characters often symbolize deceit and betrayal, appearing as untrustworthy or mysterious.
Authors use furtive behavior to build suspense, presenting characters who act in secrecy to create intrigue.
The term often appears in descriptions of spies or secret agents in novels and films, emphasizing a need for discretion.

Psychology

Engaging in furtive actions can relate to feelings of anxiety or fear of judgment from others.
Studies show that people often act furtively when they are trying to avoid conflict or negative repercussions.
Furtive behaviors can indicate a level of guilt or shame, often reflecting inner conflicts about honesty.

Pop Culture

Furtive actions are commonly portrayed in spy movies, where characters must sneak around to complete their missions.
Popular characters like Sherlock Holmes often operate furtively, using stealth and cunning to solve mysteries.
The word has been used in songs and poems to depict secret love affairs, emphasizing hidden emotions.

Cultural Perspectives

In many cultures, sneaky behavior is often associated with witty or clever individuals who outsmart others.
Some traditions view furtive actions negatively, equating them with dishonesty or a lack of integrity.
In certain folklore, characters who act furtively might possess magical abilities, highlighting the mystique tied to secrecy.

Translations

Translations of the word "furtively" in other languages:

🇵🇹 furtivamente

🇮🇳 चुपके से

🇩🇪 heimlich

🇮🇩 dengan diam-diam

🇺🇦 таємно

🇵🇱 ukradkiem

🇯🇵 こっそり

🇫🇷 furtivement

🇪🇸 furtivamente

🇹🇷 gizlice

🇰🇷 몰래

🇸🇦 خلسة

🇨🇿 potají

🇸🇰 potajomky

🇨🇳 偷偷地 (tōutōu de)

🇸🇮 skrivaj

🇮🇸 leynilega

🇰🇿 жасырын түрде

🇬🇪 ჩუმად

🇦🇿 gizlicə

🇲🇽 furtivamente

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,228, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

...
25225 rebuffed
25226 buckskin
25227 unlisted
25228 furtively
25229 whist
25230 hieroglyphic
25231 gastroenteritis
...