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indiscreetly

UK[ˌɪndɪˈskriːtli]US[ˌɪndɪˈskriːtli]
adv

In a way that reveals private or sensitive information in an unwise or careless manner.

adv

In a way that lacks good judgment, prudence, or tact.

Morpheme Breakdown

in
discreet
ly
in

not

discreet

careful

ly

adverb suffix

Etymology

The word's journey begins with the Latin verb discernere, meaning "to separate, distinguish, or perceive." From this, the past participle discretus gave rise to the adjective discretus, signifying "separate" and, by extension, "possessing discernment or good judgment." The English adjective "discreet" evolved from this Latin root, specifically capturing the sense of being careful and tactful. The negative prefix in- was added to form "indiscreet," meaning "not discreet," and the adverbial suffix -ly was subsequently appended to create "indiscreetly," describing the manner of acting without prudence or revealing secrets.

Analysis

Structure: in (not) + discreet (careful) + ly (adverb suffix) - in: A Latin prefix meaning "not" or "without," functioning here as a negator. - discreet: An English adjective of Latin origin, meaning "careful, prudent, or tactful," functioning as the core semantic root. - ly: An Old English suffix used to form adverbs from adjectives, indicating the manner of an action.

Examples

He spoke indiscreetly about the company's confidential plans during the interview.

She realized she had been gossiping indiscreetly and quickly apologized.

Posting vacation photos online while still away can indiscreetly signal that your home is empty.

indiscreetly – Meaning, Etymology & Word Origin | OpenEtymology