What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
privily
Example
She privily slipped the note into his pocket. [privily: adverb]
Example
The two friends spoke privily in the corner of the room. [privily: adverb]
covertly
Example
The spy covertly entered the building through a back entrance. [covertly: adverb]
Example
He was caught on camera covertly stealing money from the cash register. [covertly: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Covertly is more commonly used than privily in everyday language.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between privily and covertly?
Covertly is more formal and appropriate for professional or academic writing, while privily is more informal and suited for casual conversation or storytelling.
