eavesdropping
word · lemma: eavesdrop
Definition
Eavesdropping means secretly listening to other people's private conversations without their knowledge.
Usage & Nuances
Usually considered rude or unethical; often appears with verbs like 'caught', 'accused of', or 'guilty of' eavesdropping. Used in both personal and formal (legal/security) contexts. Not the same as 'spying' (broader, more active).
Spanish: escuchar a escondidasPortuguese (BR): escutar às escondidas - bisbilhotarPortuguese (PT): escutar às escondidas - bisbilhotarChinese (Simplified): 偷听Chinese (Traditional): 偷聽Hindi: छिपकर सुननाArabic: التنصتBengali: গোপনে শোনাRussian: подслушиваниеJapanese: 盗み聞きVietnamese: nghe lénKorean: 도청Turkish: kulak misafiri - gizlice dinlemeUrdu: چپکے سے سنناIndonesian: menguping
Example Sentences
She was eavesdropping on their conversation.
basic
Eavesdropping is not polite.
basic
He got caught eavesdropping outside the door.
basic
She suspects someone has been eavesdropping on her calls.
natural
Stop eavesdropping and mind your own business!
natural
The security team discovered high-tech eavesdropping devices in the office.
natural