bei Nacht und Nebel
Translation
under the cover of darkness, in secret, clandestinely
Examples
Er hat die Stadt bei Nacht und Nebel verlassen.
He left the city under the cover of darkness.
Grammar Patterns
bei Nacht und Nebel + verb: to do sth. under the cover of darkness He left the city bei Nacht und Nebel.
Similar Words
secretly, covertly, stealthily
Etymology
Literally 'by night and fog'. The imagery of night and fog, which obscure vision, leads to the meaning of secrecy and stealth.
Memory Tips
Visualize a spy sneaking away on a foggy night. This image of concealment helps to remember the meaning of doing something secretly.