à la dérobée

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furtively, on the sly
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العربية الفصحى
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/a la deʁɔbe/
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In a quick, hidden way to avoid being noticed.
Practice using à la dérobée in conversation until it feels natural

Examples

  • Elle lut la lettre à la dérobée avant de la ranger.
    She read the letter furtively before putting it away.
  • Un voisin prit une photo à la dérobée.
    A neighbour took a photo without being noticed.
  • Elle l'observait à la dérobée pendant le dîner.
    She watched him furtively during dinner.
  • Les enfants échangeaient des sourires à la dérobée.
    The children exchanged smiles in secret.
  • Il jeta un regard à la dérobée vers la porte.
    He stole a glance on the sly towards the door.

Similar words

en cachette
en tapinois
subrepticement
furtivement

Meanings

Furtively

furtive behaviour
formal
Without attracting attention, especially when looking, gesturing or doing something briefly in secret.

Examples

  • Elle l'observait à la dérobée pendant le dîner.
    She watched him furtively during dinner.
  • Il jeta un regard à la dérobée vers la porte.
    He stole a glance on the sly towards the door.
  • Les enfants échangeaient des sourires à la dérobée.
    The children exchanged smiles in secret.
  • Elle lut la lettre à la dérobée avant de la ranger.
    She read the letter furtively before putting it away.
  • Un voisin prit une photo à la dérobée.
    A neighbour took a photo without being noticed.

Similar words

furtivement
subrepticement
en cachette
en tapinois

Etymology

Related to dérober, a verb that can mean to steal or to conceal.

FAQ

What does à la dérobée mean?

It means quickly and furtively.

Is it often used for a glance?

Yes, regarder à la dérobée is a common use.

Does it imply secrecy?

Yes, the person avoids being noticed.

Is it the same as en sous-main?

No. This expression often suggests a brief furtive action rather than a secret deal.

How is it pronounced?

It is pronounced /a la deʁɔbe/.

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