Underhanded: meaning, definitions and examples
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underhanded
[ˌʌndərˈhændɪd ]
Definitions
behavior
Characterized by deceit or dishonesty; not straightforward or honest.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| underhanded |
Use this word when describing actions that are secretive and morally questionable, often done in a way that others cannot easily detect.
|
| deceitful |
This word is suitable for describing someone who regularly lies and manipulates facts to achieve their own ends, and carries a strong negative connotation.
|
| dishonest |
A general term used to describe someone who does not tell the truth or is prone to cheating, frequently used in various contexts with a negative connotation.
|
| sneaky |
Best used to describe behavior that is secretive and likely to avoid notice, often carrying a somewhat negative but sometimes less severe connotation.
|
Examples of usage
- He resorted to underhanded tactics to win the competition.
- The underhanded scheme was eventually exposed by the authorities.
action
Done secretly or in a way that is not easily noticed.
Synonyms
covert, stealthy, surreptitious.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| underhanded |
This word is used when referring to actions that are dishonest, secretive, and unethical. It often carries a negative connotation.
|
| surreptitious |
Surreptitious refers to actions done secretly, especially because they would not be approved of. It can imply a level of sneakiness or slyness.
|
| covert |
This term is often used to describe actions or operations that are hidden and secret, usually in a formal or military context.
|
| stealthy |
Stealthy is used to describe movements or actions that are done quietly and cautiously to avoid detection, often in a physical sense.
|
Examples of usage
- She made an underhanded move to gain an advantage in the game.
- The underhanded deal was made behind closed doors.
Translations
Translations of the word "underhanded" in other languages:
🇵🇹 sub-reptício
🇮🇳 छलपूर्ण
🇩🇪 hinterhältig
🇮🇩 licik
🇺🇦 підступний
🇵🇱 podstępny
🇯🇵 陰険な
🇫🇷 sournois
🇪🇸 engañoso
🇹🇷 sinsi
🇰🇷 교활한
🇸🇦 مخادع
🇨🇿 záludný
🇸🇰 zákerný
🇨🇳 阴险的
🇸🇮 zahrbten
🇮🇸 undirförull
🇰🇿 айлакер
🇬🇪 მატყუარა
🇦🇿 hiyləgər
🇲🇽 engañoso
Etymology
The word 'underhanded' has its origins in the early 19th century. It combines the prefix 'under-' meaning 'beneath' or 'below', and 'handed' referring to the hand as a symbol of action or work. The term originally referred to actions done in a deceitful or dishonest manner, often in a way that was not easily noticed or detected.
See also: under, underage, underbelly, underbody, underfed, underling, underneath, underpants, underside, understand, underwear.