"Secretly" vs. "surreptitiously": shades of stealth

Reviewed and edited by

Lloyd Cooper 23/10/2024, 16:57

English.me team member

Secretly and surreptitiously. What's the difference?

What is similar?

Both "secretly" and "surreptitiously" describe actions done in a hidden or concealed manner, often to avoid notice or detection.

What is different?

The word "secretly" often implies doing something without others knowing, emphasizing the aspect of secrecy. "Surreptitiously" emphasizes more on the attempt to avoid detection or notice, suggesting a more cunning or stealthy manner.

Which one is more common?

Examples of usage

Secretly

She secretly plotted a surprise party for him.
He was secretly hoping she'd say yes.
They secretly met to discuss their plans.

Surreptitiously

He surreptitiously slipped the letter into her bag.
The spy surreptitiously recorded the conversation.
She surreptitiously glanced at the time during the meeting.