furtive

• Beschreibt ein Verhalten, das heimlich, versteckt oder hinterlistig ist und oft darauf abzielt, Aufmerksamkeit zu vermeiden, häufig mit dem Beigeschmack von Schuld oder Verschwiegenheit.

Describes behavior that is secretive, sly, or done in a way to avoid notice, often suggesting guilt or stealth.

1. Secretive or sneakyB2formal

   Done in a quiet and secret way to avoid being noticed.

   Heimlich

   • He cast a furtive glance at the document on her desk.
   • The cat made a furtive movement towards the bird.
   • She gave a furtive smile when no one was looking.

   Synonymeclandestinecovertsecretiveshiftyslystealthysurreptitiousunderhandedwily

   Antonymeblatantcandiddirectforthrightopenovert

2. Suggesting guilt or evasionB2formal

   Behaving as if trying to hide something, often due to guilt or fear.

   Heimlich

   • His furtive behavior made the police suspicious.
   • The child had a furtive look after taking the cookie.
   • They exchanged furtive whispers in the corner of the room.

   Synonymeclandestineconspiratorialcovertevasiveguiltysecretiveshiftyslystealthysurreptitiousunderhanded

   Antonymeaboveboardcandiddirecthonestopenovertstraightforward