secretly

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "secretly" is correct and usable in written English.
It is an adverb used to describe an act or a statement that is done in a covert manner. For example, "She secretly wanted to see him again."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But in reality there is no balance here: the equation of fascism and communism secretly privileges fascism.

The Guardian

The response – a flurry of favourites and followers (he now has 38,000 and counting) – left him completely baffled but secretly delighted.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I listen to their story of woe, try to offer ideas, and secretly resolve that next time I'll pretend I'm a film director instead.

The Guardian

Others will secretly welcome them because they make us look important.

The Guardian - Opinion

If they secretly shared their speeding points, you would not think they should go to prison for it.

The Guardian - Opinion

Federal police will gain the power to secretly search a terrorism suspect's home, enter through an innocent neighbour's property and impersonate people, without having to notify the subjects of the warrant for six months or more.

The Guardian

As everyone else started to mourn summer's loss, I found myself secretly willing it away.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Then there is the middle aged man who has been visiting for follow up, and thinks I am fed up of seeing him again, but doesn't realise that I secretly look forward to his cheery greeting as he energetically strides into my room greeting me with friendly familiarity by the shortened version of my first name.

The Guardian

During the 2012 London Olympics, for example, Blazer is even said to have secretly recorded meetings with several Fifa colleagues using a keyfob with a hidden microphone.

The Guardian - Sport

But who knows at what age Barlow began planning to present the public face of a charitable do-gooder, while secretly scheming to deprive the weak and vulnerable of succour, if indeed he ever did so?

The Guardian - Opinion

The camera can also be downgraded, removing features, or, if a malicious third party gets sufficient access, the app can be turned against you, secretly taking pictures and/or videos and collecting data.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "secretly", ensure the context clearly indicates who or what the action is being concealed from. For example, "He secretly admired her" is clearer than "He acted secretly."

Common error

Avoid using "secretly" when the action is inherently illegal or unethical. Instead of "He secretly stole the money", which is redundant, simply state "He stole the money" to emphasize the crime itself.

Linguistic Context

The adverb "secretly" modifies verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs to indicate that an action, feeling, or thought is concealed or done in a private manner. As Ludwig AI shows, it adds a layer of discretion or concealment to the action being described.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The adverb "secretly" is used to describe actions or feelings done in a concealed manner, as determined by both the definition and examples provided. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and widely used. The primary contexts for its use are within news and media, indicating a neutral register. When using "secretly", ensure the context clearly indicates who or what the action is being concealed from. Related phrases include "covertly", "surreptitiously", and "clandestinely", which offer nuanced alternatives depending on the desired emphasis. Avoid using "secretly" when the action is inherently illegal, as it can create redundancy. Instead, emphasize the nature of the act. Overall, "secretly" is a versatile adverb for indicating concealment and discretion.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

covertly

This alternative focuses on the hidden nature of the action, emphasizing the intention to avoid detection.

surreptitiously

This suggests a sly or stealthy way of doing something, often to avoid causing disturbance or being noticed.

clandestinely

This alternative underscores the secretive and often illicit nature of the action.

privately

This indicates that something is done in a personal or confidential manner, away from public view.

in secret

This phrase directly conveys the idea of something being done without the knowledge of others.

on the quiet

Suggests something done discreetly, often to avoid attracting attention or causing trouble.

behind the scenes

This highlights that the action is happening out of public view, often implying some level of manipulation or influence.

under the radar

Suggests an attempt to remain unnoticed or undetected, often to avoid scrutiny or interference.

confidentially

This implies that information or actions are shared or performed with the understanding that they will not be disclosed to others.

on the sly

This suggests doing something in a sneaky or underhanded manner, often implying some level of deception or wrongdoing.

FAQs

How can I use "secretly" in a sentence?

Use "secretly" to describe an action or feeling done or experienced in a concealed manner. For example, "She "secretly" hoped for a promotion" indicates her hope was not openly expressed.

What are some alternatives to the word "secretly"?

You can use alternatives such as "covertly", "surreptitiously", or "clandestinely" to convey a similar meaning of doing something in a concealed manner.

Is it correct to say "I secretly think that...?"?

Yes, it is perfectly acceptable. Saying "I "secretly" think that..." implies that you hold an opinion or belief that you don't openly express.

What is the difference between "secretly" and "privately"?

"Secretly" implies concealment from almost everyone, while "privately" suggests something done away from public view but not necessarily hidden from everyone. You might "secretly" plan a surprise party, but you discuss personal matters "privately".