on the quiet

You are wondering about the meaning of the phrase on the quiet, maybe you heard it in a TV show, movie or theater play. Although this idiom is not used very often, it enriches your capacity of expression and strengthens communication. In which case is the expression on the quiet used and what is its meaning?

Meaning of "on the quiet"

Meaning

The phrase ‘on the quiet’ is an idiom that is used to refer to something that is done in a subtle or discrete manner. It implies that the action is not being done openly or publicly, but instead is done in a low-key and secretive way. This idiom can be used to refer to any kind of action, whether it be speaking, acting, or thinking.

Etymology

The phrase ‘on the quiet’ has been in use in the English language since at least the early 19th century. Its origins are unclear, although it likely derives from the Middle English phrase ‘quyte’, meaning ‘quietly’ or ‘to still’. This phrase was in turn derived from the Old French ‘quiter’, which means ‘to cease’ or ‘to stop’. It is also possible that the phrase was derived from the phrase ‘on the q.t.’, which stands for ‘on the quiet’.

Usage

The phrase ‘on the quiet’ is typically used to refer to something that is done subtly or discretely. It implies that the action is not being done publicly, but instead is done in a low key and secretive manner. It can be used to refer to any kind of action, whether it be speaking, acting, or thinking. It can also be used figuratively, for instance when referring to something that is done ‘on the quiet’, such as a secret meeting or a hidden agenda.

Example Sentences

• We need to discuss this on the quiet – let's not let anyone else know.
• She's been doing some research on the quiet – she hasn't told anyone about it yet.
• He's been plotting something on the quiet – I'm sure there's something going on.

Idioms with similar meaning

"Don't judge a book by its cover" is an English idiom that means you shouldn't make assumptions about someone or something based solely on its appearance. In Japanese, the similar idiom is "Hana yori dango," which translates to "Dumplings rather than flowers." This idiom means that substance is more important than appearance.