# discreetly

/dɪsˈkɹitɫi/ (US) · /dɪskɹˈiːtli/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/discreetly
Updated: 2026-05-11

## Definition

in a way that is careful not to attract attention or cause embarrassment. You do something this way when you want to keep it private or quiet.

For teachers: in a manner that avoids attracting notice or causing offense, often to maintain privacy or secrecy.

## Examples

- She discreetly checked her phone under the table.
- The waiter discreetly informed the guest that their credit card had been declined to avoid making a scene.
- Throughout the negotiations, the diplomat worked discreetly behind the scenes to ensure that both parties felt their core concerns were being addressed without public scrutiny.

## Pitfalls

- Not "he acted discretely" but "he acted discreetly" — Learners often confuse 'discreetly' (carefully/quietly) with 'discretely' (separately/individually).

## Usage notes

- Typically follows the verb it modifies or the direct object.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.