flies under the radar
Avoids being detected
To fly under the radar is to avoid notice or detection, operating in a way that doesn't attract attention from authorities, competitors, or the public.
The metaphor comes from aircraft flying low enough to evade radar detection.
Someone who flies under the radar might be deliberately keeping a low profile, or they might simply be unremarkable enough to escape scrutiny.
The startup flew under the radar until it suddenly announced a major acquisition.
- low profileInconspicuous public presence
- keeping a low profileAvoiding notice deliberately
- laying lowRemaining hidden or inconspicuous
- dodgingAvoiding by moving aside
- modestyAbsence of vanity
escape · sidestepping · anonymity · off the grid · unassumingness · humility · stealth · blending in · hidden in plain sight · quietness · discretion · unobtrusiveness · restraint · behind the scenes · infiltration · black ops · covert ops · understatement
flies under the radarstands out
Is notably conspicuous
draws attention · makes waves · sticks out like a sore thumb · in the spotlight · center of attention
flies under the radargrandstanding
Performing to impress onlookers
showboating · attention-seeking · publicity hound · flexing · showing off