# secretly

/ˈsikɹɪtɫi/ (US) · /sˈiːkɹətli/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/secretly
Updated: 2026-05-02

## Definition

doing something in a way that other people do not see or know about. You use this when you want to keep a fact or an action private.

For teachers: in a confidential or clandestine manner, intended to avoid notice or disclosure. Often modifies verbs related to communication, movement, or internal feelings.

## Examples

- She secretly bought a gift for her brother.
- The two companies secretly met for months to discuss a merger before making a public announcement.
- While he maintained a professional exterior, he secretly harbored a deep resentment toward the board's decision to restructure the department without consulting the staff.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He told me his secretely plan." but "He told me his secret plan." — Learners often use the adverb 'secretly' where the adjective 'secret' is required to modify a noun.

## Usage notes

- Typically placed before the main verb or at the end of a clause; can also appear at the start of a sentence for emphasis.

---

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.