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Secretly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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secretly

[ˈsiː.krət.li ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

in a hidden or concealed manner

In a way that is not known or seen by others; privately or confidentially.

Synonyms

confidentially, covertly, privately.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
secretly

This is used when someone does something without others knowing, often because it is not allowed or they don't want others to find out.

  • She secretly read her sister's diary.
  • He secretly loves watching romantic movies.
privately

Used when something is done away from the public eye or without others present. It can be neutral or positive, often implying intimacy or privacy rather than secrecy or deception.

  • They spoke privately about their relationship.
  • She likes to work on her art privately.
confidentially

This word is used in situations where information is shared under strict privacy, often in professional settings, where confidentiality is required.

  • The doctor discussed the patient's condition confidentially with the nurse.
  • They shared the business plans confidentially during the board meeting.
covertly

Used to describe actions done in a hidden or secretive manner, often because they involve deception or are illicit.

  • The spy gathered information covertly.
  • They met covertly to discuss the heist details.

Examples of usage

  • She was secretly relieved when he canceled their plans.
  • He secretly admired her from afar.
  • They were secretly dating for months before telling anyone.
Context #2 | Adverb

in a way that is kept hidden from others

Done, made, or conducted without the knowledge of others.

Synonyms

clandestinely, stealthily, surreptitiously.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
secretly

Used when something is done without others knowing, but not necessarily with a negative connotation.

  • He secretly planned a surprise party for her
  • They were secretly meeting to plan their vacation
stealthily

Used when an action is done quietly and carefully to avoid being noticed, often in physical movements.

  • The cat moved stealthily across the garden
  • He stealthily tiptoed out of the room
surreptitiously

Used when something is done in a hidden way, often implying secrecy and a sense of wrongdoing.

  • She surreptitiously glanced at her watch during the meeting
  • He surreptitiously recorded their conversation
clandestinely

Used in more formal or serious contexts, often regarding activities that are illegal or unethical.

  • The documents were exchanged clandestinely
  • They conducted their business clandestinely to avoid detection

Examples of usage

  • She secretly slipped the note into his bag.
  • He smiled secretly, knowing he had outsmarted them.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Keeping things secret can create feelings of mystery or excitement, but it can also lead to stress and anxiety.
  • Studies suggest that holding onto secrets can affect our mental health, sometimes leading to feelings of guilt.
  • People often feel a mix of liberation and fear when they uncover something that was kept secret.

Pop Culture

  • Secretly executed plans often drive plots in movies and books, making characters more intriguing.
  • Songs about keeping secrets or doing things behind closed doors often portray themes of love and betrayal.
  • Popular television series frequently use secret identities to create tension and suspense.

Literature

  • In many novels, characters have secret pasts that are gradually revealed to add depth to their stories.
  • Secretive communication plays a vital role in mystery and thriller genres, where hidden motives are key to the plot.
  • Classic literature often features secret societies or hidden messages that challenge the protagonist.

Science

  • The concept of 'social secrets' in relation to dopamine release indicates how hiding information can lead to positive feelings.
  • Neuroscientific studies suggest that human brains are wired to share secrets, as it promotes bonding and trust.
  • Research shows that revealing a secret can result in physical changes in the brain, leading to a 'release' effect.

Origin of 'secretly'

Main points about word origin

  • 'Secretly' comes from the Latin word 'secretus', meaning 'set apart' or 'hidden'.
  • It evolved in Middle English from the term 'secres' which relates to the concept of hiding information.
  • The use of 'secretly' in the English language can be traced back to the late 14th century.

The word 'secretly' is derived from the word 'secret', which originated from the Latin word 'secretus', meaning 'separate, set apart'. The adverb 'secretly' first appeared in the English language in the late 16th century.

See also: secrecy, secret, secretary, secrete, secretion, secretive, secretively.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,201 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.