insidious

• Descreve algo que causa dano ou perigo de forma sutil e gradual, sem ser percebido; frequentemente se refere a algo traiçoeiro ou ardiloso que age de maneira oculta.

Describes something that is subtly harmful, dangerous, or deceitful, often spreading gradually without being noticed.

1. Subtly harmfulC1formal

   Proceeding in a gradual, subtle way but with harmful effects.

   Insidioso

   • The insidious disease spread without any early symptoms.
   • Prejudice can have an insidious effect on society.
   • The insidious influence of propaganda eroded public trust.

   Sinônimoscorrosivedeceptiveperniciousstealthysubtletreacherousunderhanded

   Antônimosblatantdirectflagrantobviousovert

2. Treacherous or deceitfulC1formal

   Intended to entrap or deceive in a cunning way.

   Insidioso

   • The insidious plot was designed to overthrow the government.
   • He used insidious tactics to manipulate his colleagues.
   • The insidious nature of the scheme made it hard to detect.

   Sinônimoscraftycunningdeceitfulguilefulslysubtletreacherousunderhandedwily

   Antônimoscandidforthrightguilelesshonestopenstraightforward