discreetly

[dih-skreet-lee]

adverb

1. in a way that is careful about something of a personal or delicate nature; circumspectly.

   These protocols allow patients to have private conversations with caregivers in which their questions can be answered discreetly.

2. in a way that is not conspicuous or obvious; unobtrusively.

   The building is historic, as explained on the understated bronze plaque displayed discreetly in the entryway.

Other Word Forms

• overdiscreetly adverb
• quasi-discreetly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of discreetly¹

discreet ( def. ) + -ly

Example Sentences

The language allowed deaf, gay people to communicate discreetly.

From BBC

At the meeting point, the employee is approached by a man - or occasionally a woman - who discreetly hands over a sealed envelope containing the money before vanishing without further interaction.

From BBC

In the letter to Ms Murray, the MPs said: "It is disgraceful that Ms Shaw has publicly refused bonuses and yet discreetly accepted large payments."

From BBC

Instead, subscribers answer questions online, correspond with medical professionals virtually and get the prescribed drugs in visually pleasing packages delivered discreetly to their homes.

From Los Angeles Times

“How were they on their last movie? Brad has a phenomenal reputation. Will Smith has a phenomenal reputation — minus that,” he adds, discreetly alluding to the 2022 Oscars slap.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• anxiously 
• attentively 
• conscientiously www.thesaurus.com
• correctly www.thesaurus.com
• deliberately 
• delicately 
• faithfully 
• fully 
• gingerly 
• laboriously 
• meticulously 
• precisely 
• prudently 
• rigorously 
• scrupulously 
• thoroughly 
• thoughtfully www.thesaurus.com
• warily