on the quiet

on the quiet is an idiom used by many writers. When idioms are used in the right place, they open the doors of effective communication and increase your descriptive power. In this way, you will be better understood. The meaning of the expression on the quiet is also remarkable in this respect.

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.

The Global Spread of English Idioms

As English has become a global language, its idioms have spread far beyond the borders of the UK and USA. For instance, the idiom "beat around the bush" has equivalents in many other languages, such as "tourner autour du pot" in French and "dar vueltas al asunto" in Spanish. Meanwhile, other idioms have been adapted for local contexts, such as the Russian idiom "?? ???? ???????" (ne svoya rubashka), which translates to "not one's own shirt," meaning to be in an uncomfortable or unfamiliar situation.