What is secretly? Pronunciation and usage in English

secretly means . Learn how to pronounce and use secretly through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of secretly

secretlyadverb

/ˈsiːkrɪtli/
Definition & pronunciation of secretly

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "secretly." It's a tricky one for many English learners! Here's a breakdown, focusing on the key sounds:

1. The "Se" sound:

  • "Se" is pronounced like "sir" – /sɪr/ (The 'i' sound is very short and quick)

2. The "cret" sound:

  • "cret" is where it gets tricky. It’s a diphthong, meaning it's a blend of two vowel sounds. It sounds like "kruh-et" (like the beginning of "cruet," a small jar). It’s similar to how you pronounce “cream” but with a more compressed, slightly harsher sound. Some people might shorten it further to just "kret".
    • Think of it as a quick, clipped "kruh" combined with a short "et."

3. The "ly" sound:

  • "ly" is pronounced like "lee" – /li/

Putting it all together:

The whole word is pronounced something like: ˈsɪkriːtli

Here’s a phonetic transcription (more technical): /ˈsɪkriːtli/

  • ˈsɪkriːt (stress is on "secret") - This is the core of the word.
  • li - The "-ly" ending

Tips for getting it right:

  • Listen to examples: The best way to learn is by hearing it. Here are a few options:

  • Break it down: Practice the “sir” + “kruh-et” + “lee” parts separately before putting it all together.

  • Focus on the “cret” sound: This is the hardest part for most learners. Really exaggerate it when you're practicing.

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you some similar-sounding words to practice with?

Usage and examples with the word secretly in English

Let's break down how to use the word "secretly" in English. It essentially means "in a way that is not public or known to others." Here's a comprehensive guide with examples:

1. Basic Meaning & Structure:

  • Adverb: "Secretly" is an adverb, meaning it modifies a verb, adjective, or another adverb. It describes how something is done.
  • Formula: The general structure is: [Verb/Adjective/Adverb] secretly

2. Common Uses & Examples:

  • Describing Actions: This is the most frequent use.

    • "He secretly loved her." (He loved her, but didn't reveal it.)
    • "She secretly practiced the piano every night." (She practiced without anyone knowing.)
    • "They secretly planned a surprise party." (They planned it without the birthday person finding out.)
    • "I secretly wished I could fly." (I wished it in a private, unexpressed way.)

  • Describing Feelings/Thoughts:

    • "He secretly felt jealous." (He felt jealous, but didn’t show it.)
    • "She secretly wondered if he was really coming." (She had the thought but didn’t say anything.)

  • Describing Hidden Intentions:

    • "He secretly hoped to get the promotion." (He wanted the promotion, but didn't openly express it.)
    • "They secretly wanted to stay hidden.” (They desired to remain unseen.)

  • With Adjectives (to modify emotions/states):

    • "He felt secretly disappointed." (He had a hidden feeling of disappointment)
    • "She felt secretly anxious about the presentation." (A subtle, unspoken anxiety)

3. Important Nuances & Considerations:

  • Contrast with Openly: "Secretly" often highlights a contrast with something that would be done or felt openly. It emphasizes the hidden nature.

  • Implied Motivation: There's often an underlying reason for staying secret – perhaps shame, fear, embarrassment, or a desire to surprise someone.

  • Using “Secretly” with “Knowingly”: Be careful not to confuse "secretly" with “knowingly.” “Knowingly” means aware of something, while "secretly" means it's hidden.

    • "He was secretly hoping for a raise (unaware of it)." (He didn't realize he was hoping)
    • "The agent was knowingly involved in the plot." (He was aware of his role)

4. Phrases with “Secretly”:

  • Secretly admire: To have a hidden appreciation for someone or something.
  • Secretly hope for: To wish for something unobtrusively.
  • Secretly resent: To feel hidden anger or dislike.
  • Secretly love: As above, a hidden affection.

5. Example Sentences Combining Concepts:

  • "She secretly admired her brother’s courage, even though she pretended to be jealous." (Hidden admiration contrasted with outward expression)
  • “He secretly packed a small gift for her, hoping to surprise her at dinner." (Hidden action motivated by a desire to surprise)

To help me tailor my explanation even further, could you tell me:

  • What kind of context are you thinking about when you want to use "secretly"? (e.g., writing a story, describing a situation, etc.)
  • Is there a specific sentence you're struggling with?

Synonyms for the word secretly

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