Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
on-the-sly
adverbial phrase
/ˌɒn ðə slaɪ/
Definition
In a secretive or stealthy manner.
Examples
- She was meeting her friends on-the-sly, trying to keep it from her parents.
- He was on-the-sly working on a surprise party for her birthday.
- The company made changes on-the-sly, hoping that no one would notice.
Meaning
The phrase ‘on-the-sly’ refers to actions taken discreetly, without drawing attention or in a hidden way. It often implies an element of sneaking or doing something quietly, usually to avoid detection.
Synonyms
- secretly
- covertly
- surreptitiously
