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ON THE SLY definition: 1. If you do something on the sly, you do it secretly because you should not be doing it: 2. If…. Learn more.
Definition of on the sly in the Idioms Dictionary. on the sly phrase. What does on the sly expression mean? Definitions by the largest Idiom Dictionary.
Aug 12, 2024 · on the sly. : in a manner intended to avoid notice. Synonyms. artful. beguiling. cagey. cagy.
To do something on the sly means to do it secretly, often because it is wrong or bad. [informal] Was she meeting some guy on the sly? Synonyms: secretly, privately, covertly, surreptitiously More Synonyms of on the sly. See full dictionary entry for sly. Collins COBUILD Advanced Learner’s Dictionary. Copyright © HarperCollins Publishers.
The idiom “on the sly” is often used in informal settings to describe actions that are done discreetly or secretly. For example, if someone is eating junk food while on a diet but doesn’t want others to know, they might say they’re eating it “on the sly”.
on the sly meaning, definition, what is on the sly: secretly, especially when you are doing ...: Learn more.
1. Clever or cunning, especially in the practice of deceit. 2. Stealthy or surreptitious: took a sly look at the letter on the table. 3. Playfully mischievous: a sly laugh. Idiom: on the sly. In a way intended to escape notice: took extra payments on the sly. [Middle English sleigh, from Old Norse slœgr.] sly′ly adv. sly′ness n.
