different between furtively vs pussyfoot

English

Etymology

From furtive +? -ly.

Pronunciation

• (UK) IPA^(key): /?f??t?vli/

Adverb

furtively (comparative more furtively, superlative most furtively)

1. In a furtive manner.

Synonyms

• secretively
• surreptitiously

Translations

English

Etymology

From pussy (“feline”) +? foot; because of the light and careful tread of cats.

Pronunciation

• (UK) IPA^(key): /?p?s.i?f?t/

Verb

pussyfoot (third-person singular simple present pussyfoots, present participle pussyfooting, simple past and past participle pussyfooted)

1. (intransitive) To move silently, stealthily, or furtively.
2. (intransitive) To act timidly or cautiously.
   • 2004, Jeph Jacques, Fripp and Eno

     — So are you going to practice what you’re preaching and stop pussyfooting around with Faye?

     — Hey, I’m 0 for 1 when it comes to practicing what I preach. These feet stay pussied for the time being.

3. (intransitive) To use euphemistic language or circumlocution.
   • 1946, Tennessee Williams, The Unsatisfactory Supper

     "Then you talk up! And plain! What's there to be so pussyfooting about?"

Translations

See also

• pussytoe
• walk on eggshells