furtive
Adjective
Hard difficulty
What does “furtive” mean?
adjective.attempting to avoid notice or attention, typically because of a belief that discovery would lead to trouble; secretive.
SAT Usage
the term is often found in contexts involving secrecy, deception, or cautious behavior, particularly in narratives or character analysis. It emphasizes a slyness or craftiness in avoiding detection, which differs from synonyms like "covert" that may lack the connotation of guilt or fear of consequence.
Common Confusions
Furtive implies a secretive nature driven by guilt or fear of consequences, while clandestine usually suggests a hidden action that is planned or executed without necessarily implying wrongdoing or apprehension.
Do not choose furtive if the context emphasizes boldness or openness rather than attempting to avoid notice or attention, typically because of a belief that discovery would lead to trouble; secretive.
Example Sentences
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He cast a furtive glance over his shoulder before entering.