Shiftily Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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shiftily

[หˆสƒษชf.tษช.li ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

manner of behavior

Shiftily refers to acting in a deceitful or evasive manner, often characterized by a lack of confidence or a tendency to shift one's gaze. It suggests an attempt to avoid directness or truthfulness.

Synonyms

dodgingly, evasively, furtively.

Examples of usage

  • He glanced shiftily around the room.
  • She answered the questions shiftily, avoiding eye contact.
  • The politician spoke shiftily when asked about the scandal.

Translations

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Origin of 'shiftily'

The word 'shiftily' is derived from the adjective 'shift', which has Old English origins from the word 'sceรพan', meaning 'to cause to change or alter'. Over time, 'shift' I have evolved in English to encompass meanings associated with moving or changing positions or states, which inherently carries a notion of instability or deceit. The suffix '-ly' indicates that the word functions as an adverb, modifying verbs to describe an action done in a particular manner. The notion of shifty behavior has its roots in the characterizations of someone who cannot be trusted, often linked to actions displaying evasiveness or deception. As societies evolved, so did language, broadening the interpretations associated with 'shiftily' to encompass a spectrum of unreliable behaviors, behaviors characterized by cleverness at the expense of honesty.


Word Frequency Rank

At position #42,431, 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.