spied

word · lemma: spy

Definition

'Spied' is the past tense of 'spy.' It means to watch or observe someone secretly, often to get information without being noticed.

Usage & Nuances

'Spied' is mostly used for secret or hidden observation. It can be used in both serious (espionage) and casual (watching someone unnoticed) contexts. Usually followed by 'on' (e.g., 'spied on the neighbors'). Not to be confused with 'spied' meaning just noticing something—'spied' implies secrecy.

Spanish: espiar (pasado) - observar secretamentePortuguese (BR): espionar (passado) - observar às escondidasPortuguese (PT): espiar (passado) - observar secretamenteChinese (Simplified): 偷偷观察 (过去式) - 监视 (过去式)Chinese (Traditional): 偷偷觀察 (過去式) - 監視 (過去式)Hindi: जासूसी की (भूतकाल) - छुपकर देखाArabic: تَجَسَّسَ (صيغة الماضي) - راقب سراً

Example Sentences

She spied on their conversation from behind the curtain.

natural

The girl spied through the keyhole.

basic

He spied on his brother to see what he was doing.

basic

We spied a cat hiding in the bushes.

basic

I spied him sneaking out of the house late last night.

natural

The detective spied on the suspects for several days.

natural