What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
shiftily
Example
He looked at me shiftily when I asked him where he was last night. [shiftily: adverb]
Example
She shifted her eyes shiftily around the room, as if she was hiding something. [shiftily: adverb]
deviously
Example
He deviously plotted to take over the company by undermining his colleagues. [deviously: adverb]
Example
She deviously manipulated her way into getting what she wanted. [deviously: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Deviously is more commonly used than shiftily in everyday language. Deviously is a more versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while shiftily is less common and may be considered more informal.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between shiftily and deviously?
Both shiftily and deviously are informal words that are typically used in casual conversation. However, deviously may be considered slightly more formal than shiftily due to its wider usage and stronger connotation.
