furtive
Pronunciation
Adjective
C1 Advanced
Quick answer
Done secretly and quickly because you don't want anyone else to notice.
Synonyms and antonyms
Synonyms
secretive
stealthy
Antonyms
open
blatant
Usage notes
"Furtive" almost always describes body language, like a glance or a movement, rather than a plan or an idea.
Test yourself
Which word fits the gap? "He gave a _____ glance over his shoulder before slipping the note into her bag."
Answer: furtive
In your own words, what does "furtive" mean?
Done secretly and quickly because you don't want anyone else to notice.
Learn next at C1
- futile Having no real chance of succeeding, so that the effort spent on it is...
- gambol To run and jump around playfully, the way young animals or children of...
- garish Extremely bright or colorful in a way that looks cheap or tasteless.
- garner To gradually collect or gain something, especially praise, support, or...
- garrulous Talking a great deal, especially about unimportant things.
- gauche Socially awkward or clumsy in a way that shows a lack of experience wi...