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spy

[spaɪ]

spy Definition

  • 1a person who secretly collects and reports information on the activities, movements, and plans of an enemy or competitor
  • 2to observe or gather information secretly

Using spy: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "spy" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The spy was caught and imprisoned for espionage.

  • Example

    He was sent to spy on the enemy's military base.

  • Example

    She spied on her neighbor through the window.

  • Example

    The company hired a private investigator to spy on their competitor.

spy Synonyms and Antonyms

Antonyms for spy

Idioms Using spy

  • play spy

    to pretend to be a spy, often in a game or role-playing scenario

    Example

    The children enjoyed playing spy, using toy binoculars and walkie-talkies to communicate with each other.

  • a group of spies who work together to gather and report information

    Example

    The spy network was able to infiltrate the enemy's organization and gather valuable intelligence.

  • a genre of fiction that features spies and espionage as the main plot

    Example

    He enjoys reading spy thrillers, especially those written by John le Carré.

Phrases with spy

  • to secretly observe or gather information about someone or something

    Example

    He suspected his partner was cheating on him, so he hired a detective to spy on her.

  • a small camera used to secretly record images or videos

    Example

    The store owner installed a spy camera to catch shoplifters.

  • double agent

    a spy who works for two opposing sides, often pretending to be loyal to one while actually working for the other

    Example

    The double agent was able to provide valuable information to both sides of the conflict.

Origins of spy

from Old English 'spion', meaning 'one who spies'

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Summary: spy in Brief

A 'spy' [spaɪ] is a person who secretly collects and reports information on the activities, movements, and plans of an enemy or competitor. It can also mean to observe or gather information secretly. Examples include 'The company hired a private investigator to spy on their competitor.' and 'She spied on her neighbor through the window.' Phrases like 'spy on' and idioms like 'spy network' are common. 'Spy thriller' is a genre of fiction featuring espionage.

How do native speakers use this expression?