on the sly

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Adverb

1. (idiomatic) Slyly, in an inconspicuous manner, so as not to be seen; secretly; stealthily.
   • 1857, William Makepeace Thackeray, The Virginians, ch. 16:

     This diversion was enjoyed on the sly, and unknown to the ladies of the house.

Synonyms

• clandestinely
• furtively
• on the Q.T.

Translations

• French: en douce
• Russian: втихаря́

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