in confidence

Idioms  

1. Also, in strict confidence. Privately, on condition that what is said will not be revealed. For example, The doctor told her in confidence that her mother was terminally ill, or He told us in strict confidence that Gail was pregnant. This idiom was first recorded in 1632. Also see take into one's confidence.

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

in confidence

The recent dip in confidence may have more to do with inflation, he said.

From MarketWatch ● Aug. 10, 2026

He says being in a band has helped the young people grow in confidence and develop self-esteem.

From BBC ● Jul. 11, 2026

China’s consumer recovery may be less about a broad rebound in confidence and more about pockets of spending where companies can convert anxiety, loneliness, aging, and lifestyle aspiration into services.

From Barron's ● Jun. 19, 2026

"I found myself improving in confidence, in talking to people, even serving people, talking to an interviewer who's asking you questions," he said.

From BBC ● Jun. 7, 2026

Dad says, making it crystal clear that I can’t tell either of them anything in confidence.

From "Challenger Deep" by Neal Shusterman

Related Words

• clandestinely
• covertly
• furtively
• personally
• privately
• quietly
• stealthily
• surreptitiously