Furtiveness Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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furtiveness

[fɜːtɪv.nəs ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

in behavior

The quality of being secretive, sly, or stealthy in one's actions or behavior.

Synonyms

secrecy, slyness, stealthiness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
furtiveness	When describing someone's behavior as being secretive in a way that suggests they may be hiding something or being sneaky. His furtiveness was evident when he quickly hid the document as soon as someone entered the room
slyness	When describing someone’s cunning or deceitful nature, often in a playful or mischievous way. It has a slightly negative connotation. The fox's slyness in finding ways to steal chickens from the farm was almost admirable
stealthiness	When referring to someone or something moving or acting in a way that is meant to go unnoticed, usually to avoid detection. Often associated with physical movements. The cat moved with such stealthiness that it was able to sneak up on the bird without making a sound
secrecy	When referring to the general state or condition of keeping something hidden or private, especially when it is important or sensitive. The project was conducted under a veil of secrecy to prevent any premature leaks

Examples of usage

She watched with furtiveness as he entered the room.
His furtiveness made her suspicious of his intentions.
The cat moved with furtiveness, trying to catch the mouse without being noticed.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

in appearance

The quality of being shifty or evasive in one's appearance or demeanor.

Synonyms

dodginess, evasiveness, shiftiness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
furtiveness	Furtiveness is used when someone or something is trying to stay hidden or secret, often to avoid notice. It doesn't always imply dishonesty, but it often does. He moved with a furtiveness that made everyone suspicious of his intentions. Her furtiveness about the package aroused curiosity among her colleagues.
evasiveness	Evasiveness is used when someone tries to avoid giving a straight answer or direct response. It can be less intense than dodginess but still suggests avoidance or reluctance. Her evasiveness during the interview made it hard to trust her responses. He answered the questions with skillful evasiveness, avoiding any direct commitment.
shiftiness	Shiftiness implies dishonesty or unreliability. It's often used to describe someone who appears untrustworthy or deceitful in their behavior or mannerisms. His shifty eyes and nervous manner made her question his sincerity. The shiftiness of his answers indicated that he might be hiding something.
dodginess	Dodginess has a strong negative connotation and is used when referring to something or someone that seems untrustworthy or deceitful. The business deal had a certain dodginess that made investors wary. There's a dodginess about that guy; I wouldn't trust him.

Examples of usage

His furtiveness was evident in the way he avoided eye contact.
The salesman's furtiveness raised red flags for the customer.
She could sense the furtiveness in his body language.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'furtiveness'

The word 'furtiveness' originates from the Latin word 'furtivus', meaning 'stolen' or 'secret'. It first appeared in the English language in the early 17th century, with its current meaning of secretive or sly behavior. Over time, the word has come to be associated with actions or appearances that are deceptive or stealthy.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,627, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.

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40624 majuscule
40625 reprising
40626 deadest
40627 furtiveness
40628 monomaniacal
40629 gherkin
40630 unfaithfully
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