Sneaky: meaning, definitions and examples

Appropriate in situations where someone is acting in a secretive or furtive manner to avoid being caught.

• He took a sneaky look at the answers during the test.
• She made a sneaky escape from the party without saying goodbye.

Generally used when someone is intentionally misleading or lying to others. This word has a strong negative connotation.

• Her deceitful behavior led to the company's downfall.
• It's wrong to be deceitful and not tell the truth.

Often describes someone who is cunning and clever, and who can deceive others in a subtle and possibly charming way.

• The sly smile on his face made me suspicious.
• She gave a sly wink and slipped the note into my hand.

Used when referring to someone who uses clever and often tricky methods to achieve their goals, often in a creative way.

• He's a crafty negotiator who always gets the best deals.
• The crafty fox outsmarted the hunters once again.

Refers to actions that are done in a secret and dishonest way, often to deceive or cheat someone. This term carries a negative implication.

• He was fired for his underhanded business dealings.
• Her underhanded tactics ruined her opponent's reputation.

Used to describe someone who acts in a way that is meant to be secretive or deceitful, often having a negative connotation.

• He had a sneaky plan to bypass the security system.
• She took a sneaky glance at her opponent's cards.

Indicates someone is being cunning or clever, often with the intention of tricking others, generally having a mischievous or slightly negative connotation.

• He smiled slyly, knowing he had the upper hand.
• She replied slyly, hinting at something without revealing too much.

Describes doing something very quietly and carefully to avoid being noticed, usually in scenarios requiring caution and precision.

• The cat moved stealthily through the garden.
• He stealthily approached the enemy's camp to gather information.

Describes doing something in a way that keeps it hidden from others, usually without negative connotations.

• She secretly planned a surprise party for her friend.
• He was secretly working on a special project.