Word: furtive (adjective)

Associations

The word "furtive" describes something done in a secret or sly way, often because the person is trying to avoid being noticed or caught. It often has a feeling of sneaky or guilty behavior.

• She gave a furtive glance at the clock during the meeting. (She looked secretly because she didn't want others to notice.)
• The cat made a furtive move toward the bird. (The cat moved quietly and secretly.)
• He spoke in a furtive voice, as if afraid someone might overhear. (He spoke quietly and secretly.)

Synonym: "secretive" is similar but usually describes a person who keeps many things hidden in general, while "furtive" often describes specific actions done secretly.

Substitution

Instead of "furtive," you can say:

• secretive (more general, about a person's nature)
• sneaky (more informal, suggests trickiness)
• stealthy (focuses on quietness and careful movement) Changing the word changes the tone: "sneaky" sounds more negative, "stealthy" is more neutral or positive.

Deconstruction

"Furtive" comes from Latin "furtivus," from "furtum" meaning "theft." So originally it meant "stolen" or "done like a thief." The word itself has no prefix or suffix in English; it is borrowed directly as an adjective.

Inquiry

• Can you think of a time when you or someone else acted furtively? What was the reason?
• How is "furtive" different from just being quiet or shy?
• Why do you think people use furtive actions? Are they always doing something wrong?