Select the word from the given options that is the most similar in meaning to the underlined word in the following sentence.
He had, surreptitiously, wormed his way into her affections.
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → in a secret manner
- Surreptitiously means secretly, in a way that escapes notice, often because the action would not be approved of. "Wormed his way into her affections" shows him winning her love by quiet, hidden means.
Example: He surreptitiously checked his phone during the meeting. - In a secret manner gives the same sense of doing something hidden from others, so it is the synonym of surreptitiously.
Example: The documents were moved in a secret manner late at night.
Why the Other Options are Incorrect?
Option 1: in a polite manner — Incorrect. In a polite manner means courteously, with good manners; politeness is open, not hidden.
Example: The receptionist answered every question in a polite manner.
Option 3: in an ugly manner — Incorrect. In an ugly manner means unpleasantly or offensively; it describes how bad something looks or feels, not whether it is secret.
Example: The argument ended in an ugly manner, with both sides shouting.
Option 4: in a forceful manner — Incorrect. In a forceful manner means with strength or pressure; a forceful action is noticed by everyone, the opposite of a surreptitious one.
Example: She put forward her case in a forceful manner.