incognito

/in'kɔgnitou/

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Explanation of "Incognito"

Definition: The word "incognito" is used when someone is trying to hide their true identity. This can mean they are using a different name or appearance so that others do not recognize them.

Usage Instructions

• Use "incognito" when you want to describe someone who is not showing their real self or when they are trying to remain unnoticed.
• It can be used to talk about people in disguise or when they are undercover.

Example Sentences

1. Adjective: "The famous actor went incognito to the movie premiere to enjoy it without being disturbed."
2. Adverb: "In Holland, he lived incognito as a carpenter in the shipyards of the East India Company."

Advanced Usage

• "Incognito" can also be used in formal contexts, such as in law enforcement or espionage, where someone might need to operate without revealing their identity for safety or strategic reasons.

Word Variants

• There are no direct variants of "incognito" in English, but related forms include:
  • Incognita (noun): A female person who is incognito.
  • Incognizant (adjective): Not aware or not having knowledge of something (note: this is a different meaning).

Different Meanings

• The primary meaning of "incognito" focuses on disguising one’s identity. It does not have many different meanings outside of this context.

Synonyms

• Anonymous: Not identified by name.
• Disguised: Wearing a costume or a different appearance.
• Unrecognized: Not being recognized by others.

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs

• There aren’t specific idioms or phrasal verbs that include "incognito," but you can use phrases like:
  • "Under the radar" (meaning to go unnoticed or not attract attention).
  • "Fly under the radar" (to do something discreetly, without drawing attention).

Summary

"Incognito" is a useful word when discussing situations where someone wants to hide their identity.

Academic

Adjective

1. with your identity concealed

Adverb

1. without revealing one's identity
   • in Holland he lived incognito as a carpenter in the shipyards of the East India company

Synonyms

• incognito