Spanish Conversation · Level 11
90 words
Spanish word
furtivo
Pronunciation
IPA/fuɾˈtiβo/
Meaning
- adjectivefurtive
Example
Ella dio una mirada furtiva al reloj.
She gave a furtive glance at the clock.
More examples
Se oyó un movimiento furtivo detrás de la puerta.
A furtive movement was heard behind the door.
Core concept
A secret movement to avoid notice.
Common phrases
mirada furtiva
furtive glance
movimiento furtivo
furtive movement
entrada furtiva
furtive entry
Similar words
sigiloso: Moves silently and carefully to avoid making noise while performing an action.
oculto: Remains out of sight, kept or placed so others cannot see it.
discreto: Behaves modestly and unobtrusively to avoid drawing attention.
Definition in Spanish
Que se hace en secreto o con discreción para evitar ser visto o notado.
Word origin
Derived from Latin furtivus via furtum 'theft', the adjective evolved to mean carried out discreetly to avoid being seen or noticed.
Usage tips
- Common collocations include mirada furtiva and paso furtivo, so learners often attach furtivo to specific actions rather than to a person.