undercover
word
Definition
Working secretly to get information without revealing your true identity or purpose. It is often used for police officers or investigations, and sometimes more generally for anything done in secret.
Usage & Nuances
Most commonly appears in phrases like 'undercover police officer', 'undercover agent', and 'undercover operation'. It can be an adjective or adverb: 'an undercover cop' / 'work undercover'. Do not confuse it with 'secret' in all contexts; 'undercover' usually suggests hiding identity by pretending to be someone else.
Example Sentences
The undercover officer wore normal clothes.
basic
She worked undercover for six months.
basic
The reporters went undercover to learn the truth.
basic
It turned out the guy at the bar was an undercover cop.
natural
They sent her undercover to investigate the company.
natural
I had no idea the whole meeting was part of an undercover operation.
natural