Surreptitiously Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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surreptitiously
[ˌsʌrəpˈtɪʃəsli ]
Definitions
in a secretive or sneaky manner
done, made, or acquired by stealth : acting or doing something clandestinely
Synonyms
furtively, secretly, stealthily.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| surreptitiously |
Appropriate in a formal or academic context where an action is done in a way to avoid notice due to its delicate or controversial nature.
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| secretly |
Best used in casual or general contexts when something is done privately or hidden from others.
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| stealthily |
Suitable when describing actions done with extreme caution to avoid detection, often associated with physical movement.
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| furtively |
Used when referring to actions that are done in a sly or sneaky manner, often implying dishonesty or guilt.
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Examples of usage
- He surreptitiously slipped the letter into her bag.
- The spy surreptitiously gathered information about the enemy.
done in a secret or stealthy way
kept secret, especially because it would not be approved of
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| surreptitiously |
Used when someone is doing something in a secretive manner, often to avoid notice or disapproval. It involves trying to hide the action.
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| clandestine |
Used for activities that are kept secret because they are illegal or unauthorized. Often associated with secrecy in a formal or organized context.
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| covert |
Describes actions or operations that are hidden, usually intentionally. Often used in the context of military or espionage activities.
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| furtive |
Refers to someone doing something in a way that is secretive and trying to avoid being noticed because they feel guilty or fearful of getting caught. It often has a negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- She made a surreptitious phone call to her lawyer.
- He took a surreptitious glance at his watch during the meeting.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Legal Context
- In legal terms, evidence obtained surreptitiously can sometimes be inadmissible in court.
- Surreptitious surveillance methods have raised ethical questions in privacy law debates.
- The term is often used in discussions about consent, especially concerning hidden recordings.
Psychology
- Secretive behaviors can stem from fear of judgment or societal repercussions.
- People might act surreptitiously to preserve their self-image or avoid conflict.
- Studies suggest that secrecy can lead to stress, as hiding can be mentally taxing.
Literature
- Authors liken characters who act surreptitiously to spies, adding intrigue and tension to plots.
- Classic novels often depict secretive actions as vital turning points in character development.
- Surreptitious actions in literature challenge the moral compass of characters, exploring themes of trust.
Pop Culture
- In many films, characters frequently execute plans surreptitiously to create suspense and engage the audience.
- Television shows like 'Breaking Bad' often explore the consequences of secret actions on relationships.
- The appeal of spy novels and films is largely based on the excitement of surreptitious tactics.
Origin of 'surreptitiously'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'surreptitius', meaning 'stolen', which reflects its secretive essence.
- It entered the English language in the early 19th century, showing how ideas of privacy grew in society.
- The prefix 'sur' means 'from below', hinting at things being done under the radar.
The word 'surreptitiously' originated from the Latin word 'surrepticius', which means 'stolen' or 'secret'. It first appeared in the English language in the mid-17th century. The adverb form 'surreptitiously' emphasizes the secretive or sneaky nature of an action, while the adjective form describes something done in a secret or stealthy way.