Synonyms for

Spying

Verb / ˈspaɪɪŋ / Another word for spying — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

The act of secretly or stealthily observing or investigating something or someone.

Synonyms & similar words

undercoverwork spy espial detection catching snoop spot spotting sleuth stag espy sight descry eavesdropping surveillance espionage investigation observation watching monitoring peeking snooping prying scrutiny examination inquiry peeping scouting reconnaissance shadowing following

Synonyms by register

Formal

espionage surveillance reconnaissance

Informal

peeking snooping eavesdropping prying

Literary

scouting shadowing

Antonyms

observing monitoring watching guarding protecting overseeing

Common collocations

  • spying on
  • spying activities
  • corporate spying
  • industrial spying
  • political spying
  • spying equipment
  • spying mission

Word family

noun spy
verb spy
adjective spying

Usage note

The word 'spying' often carries a negative connotation, implying illicit or secretive observation. It is distinct from neutral terms like 'observing' or 'monitoring'.

Example sentences

  1. The detective was spying on the suspect.
  2. The spy was caught while spying on the enemy.
  3. She felt like someone was spying on her.
  4. The government agency was accused of spying on citizens.
  5. I caught my little brother spying on me.

Quotes

  • The only way to deal with fear is to face it head on. Do the thing you fear the most and the fear will disappear. - Spyros Heniadis
  • Only in espionage and war, can you truly know someone. - John Le Carré
  • A true spy is a shrewd manipulator of information and situations. - David Kahn

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