Unofficially

/ˌʌnəˈfɪʃəli/

Meaning & Definition

adverb

In a manner that is not officially authorized or recognized.

The club started meeting unofficially in a local café before registering with the city.

Without formal confirmation or endorsement.

Unofficially, the project has been deemed a success by those involved.

In a way that does not have official status.

He was unofficially named the leader of the group while they searched for a proper candidate.

Used to convey information that is not officially verified.

Unofficially, it is believed that the company will be announcing layoffs soon.

The prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' combined with 'official' and the adverbial suffix '-ly'.

unofficial channel:

A method of communication or operation that is not authorized.

unofficial capacity:

Acting in a role that is not recognized formally.

On the down-low

We're doing this on the down-low, unofficially of course.

Behind the scenes

All the negotiations were happening behind the scenes, unofficially.