What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
furtive
Example
He cast a furtive glance at the door before slipping out of the room. [furtive: adjective]
Example
She made a furtive attempt to grab the cookie when no one was looking. [furtively: adverb]
stealthy
Example
The cat moved with a stealthy grace as it crept up on its prey. [stealthy: adjective]
Example
He made a stealthy escape from the building, careful not to make any noise. [stealthily: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Stealthy is more commonly used than furtive in everyday language. Stealthy is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while furtive is less common and often used in specific situations where secrecy or deception is involved.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between furtive and stealthy?
Both furtive and stealthy are formal words that are typically used in writing or formal speech. However, furtive may be more associated with negative or suspicious connotations, making it less appropriate for formal situations where neutrality is required.
