In covert

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "In covert" is not correct in standard written English.
The correct expression is "in covert" when referring to something done secretly or hidden. Example: "The agents operated in covert, gathering intelligence without being detected."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

Behavioral and Brain Functions

The New York Times - Books

The Economist

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

In covert attention mode, centrally located electrodes yield the lowest classification error.

Behavioral and Brain Functions

In covert attention mode, classification is mainly based on the P3 component, but there is also a clear modulation of P2 amplitude for the Hex-o-Spell.

Behavioral and Brain Functions

Kate knows that Julia, Dexter and Julia's husband, Bill, are all involved in covert behavior.

The New York Times - Books

His emissaries were in covert contact with the Allies and he wanted to change sides.

The Economist

For this reason America's most popular entertainment operates mostly in covert seclusion.

The New Yorker

Potential agents were being assessed by officials who had no firsthand experience in covert operations.

The New Yorker

The Joshua tree "thinks" in covert bursts of activity: Oh, I have made a terrible mistake.

The New Yorker

He said magnetic bombs were used in covert operations, describing them as "clean, easy and efficient".

The New York Times

Loyalists to the Kim regime might fight on in covert cells and costly guerrilla attacks.

The New Yorker

The spy and novelist share an interest in covert observation mixed with a frisson of risk.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

In "Covert Affairs," at 10, Annie (Piper Perabo) investigates a leak at NASA that could threaten the country's spy satellites.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Prefer the phrase "in covert" when describing actions that are carried out secretly. Consider alternatives like "undercover" or "secretly" for clarity and wider acceptance.

Common error

Avoid using "In covert" as it's grammatically incorrect. Remember that "covert" needs a preposition to correctly describe the manner in which something is done. Choose "in covert" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "In covert" functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a verb or noun to indicate the manner in which an action is performed. However, Ludwig AI points out that the grammatically correct form is "in covert".

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "In covert" appears in some sources, Ludwig AI suggests that the correct form is "in covert". This phrase functions as a prepositional phrase, describing the secretive manner in which something is done. While "in covert" can be used, consider alternatives such as "secretly", "undercover", or "in secret" for clarity and wider acceptance, particularly in formal writing. Be mindful of the specific context to choose the most appropriate term.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

In secret

Prepositional phrase indicating something done without public knowledge.

Secretly

Adverb that emphasizes the hidden manner of the action.

Undercover

Adjective describing something done or working secretly, often involving disguise.

Surreptitiously

Adverb suggesting a stealthy and secretive manner.

Furtively

Adverb implying a sly or stealthy action, often due to guilt or fear.

Clandestinely

Adverb suggesting a secret and often illicit manner.

On the quiet

Idiomatic expression for doing something discreetly.

Behind the scenes

Idiomatic phrase indicating actions done privately and out of public view.

Under the radar

Idiomatic expression for avoiding attention or detection.

In stealth mode

Modern expression referring to operating discreetly to avoid detection.

FAQs

Is it correct to say "In covert"?

No, the grammatically correct form is "in covert". The preposition "in" is essential to properly introduce the adjective "covert" and describe the manner of the action.

What's the difference between "in covert" and "undercover"?

"In covert" indicates a general state of secrecy, while "undercover" often implies a disguise or hidden identity used to gather information or infiltrate a group.

What can I say instead of "in covert"?

You can use alternatives like "secretly", "furtively", or "clandestinely" depending on the context. The phrase "in secret" is also a good option.

How to use "in covert" in a sentence?

You can use "in covert" to describe how an activity is performed. For example: "The operation was conducted in covert, ensuring no one suspected their presence."