Shadily: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when actions or behavior seem morally corrupt or dishonest. It often implies involvement in illegal or unethical activities.

• He made money shadily through various under-the-table deals.
• The business operates shadily, raising doubts about its credibility.

Applicable when actions or behavior provoke suspicion or distrust. It indicates that something seems off or unnatural, but not definitively dishonest.

• The man was lurking around the store suspiciously.
• She glanced at the stranger suspiciously, unsure of his intentions.

Used when something seems doubtful or questionable, often because of a lack of evidence or certainty. It does not necessarily imply dishonesty but suggests suspicion.

• He looked at the contract dubiously, unsure if it was a good idea.
• Her claims were received dubiously by the committee.

Appropriate for situations involving deliberate lying or trickery to mislead or fool someone. It conveys a strong sense of intentional dishonesty.

• She acted deceitfully by forging documents to get the job.
• They deceitfully promised a prize but never delivered it.