
Clandestine
Negative Connotation
Clandestine often implies wrongdoing or deception.

Despite the company's success, its clandestine practices eventually led to public scandal.
Not Always Illegal
'Clandestine' doesn't solely mean illegal; it can be any secret action to avoid attention.

Their clandestine research went unnoticed, preserving the surprise of their scientific discovery.
Persona Non Grata
Clandestine can refer to a person secretly present or involved in an area or organization.

A clandestine informant leaked the sensitive information to the press.
Compare with
CovertFurtiveHidePrivateSecretStealthySurreptitiousUndercover
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