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Under the radar Meaning in English

expression

ˈəndɝ/ /ˈðə/, /ðə/, /ði/ /ˈɹeɪˌdɑɹ
UN-der thuh RAY-dar
ˈʌndɐ/ /ðə, ði/ /ɹˈeɪdɑː
UN-duh THEE RAY-dah

Definition

If something or someone is under the radar, they are not noticed or do not attract attention, often to avoid trouble or to work secretly.

Usage & Nuances

This idiom is informal and common in both spoken and written English. It often describes actions done quietly to avoid drawing attention—e.g., 'stay under the radar.' Don’t mix it up with 'off the radar', which means not considered at all.

Example Sentences

He likes to keep his work under the radar.

basic

The new project stayed under the radar for months.

basic

She likes to stay under the radar at school.

basic

I managed to finish the task under the radar so my boss didn’t notice.

natural

Most of the changes happened under the radar, so nobody complained.

natural

He stayed under the radar until he was ready to share his idea.

natural