The phrase "doeth on sly" is spelled phonetically as /dʊəθ ɒn slaɪ/. It is an old-fashioned way of saying someone is doing something secretly or deceptively. The word "doeth" is an archaic form of "does", which is pronounced /dʌz/. The "th" at the end is pronounced as /θ/ and the "e" adds emphasis to the word. "Sly" is pronounced as /slaɪ/ with a long "i" sound. Together, the phrase is a reminder of how language has evolved over time.
Doeth on sly is an archaic phrase that originated from Early Modern English and consists of two distinct parts. "Doeth" is the third-person singular form of the verb "do" in the present tense, while "on sly" is an idiomatic expression. When combined, the phrase refers to someone engaging in an action or behavior in a discreet, secretive, or covert manner.
The term "on sly" implies that the individual is intentionally concealing their actions from others, often with the intent to deceive or avoid detection. It suggests that the person is engaged in an activity that may be considered deceitful, cunning, or mischievous. Examples of such actions could include cheating, stealing, or engaging in secretive behavior.
The phrase can also connote a sense of manipulation or deceit, as the individual is knowingly acting in a manner that others are unaware of or would disapprove of. Consequently, it implies a sense of cunning or slyness in the person's actions.
The expression "doeth on sly" is seldom used in modern English but can be found in literature or historical texts. Due to its archaic nature, it may be encountered in works such as Shakespearean plays or other early English literature.