spy

word

/ˈspaɪ/
spy
/spˈaɪ/
spy

Definition

A spy is a person who secretly collects information about another country, group, or person. It can also be a verb meaning to secretly watch someone or to notice something suddenly.

Usage & Nuances

As a noun, 'spy' often suggests secrecy and politics, but it also appears in playful contexts like children's games. As a verb, common patterns are 'spy on someone' and 'spy something in the distance'; don't confuse it with the more general 'watch' or 'see'.

Example Sentences

The movie is about a spy working for the government.

basic

They used a camera to spy on the соседний house.

basic

He was caught trying to spy on his coworkers.

natural

I spied a tiny cat hiding under the car.

natural

From the hill, we could spy the sea.

basic

As kids, we loved playing "I spy" on long car rides.

natural