behind closed doors

Idioms  

1. In secret, privately. For example, The nominating committee always meets behind closed doors, lest its deliberations become known prematurely. Also see behind the scenes.

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Example Sentences

Such candid airing of friction is unusual at the court, where personal discord is normally kept behind closed doors and legal disagreements are rendered in the formal language of written dissents.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 18, 2026

In Jerusalem, services in the Holy Sepulchre, the site where Christians believe Christ was resurrected, are being held behind closed doors.

From Barron's • Apr. 5, 2026

It forbids therapists from insisting on spreading their personal views through confidential, sensitive conversations with trusting minors happening behind closed doors.

From Slate • Apr. 3, 2026

Normally, such battles would occur behind closed doors, as manufacturers, insurance companies, employers and other firms furiously negotiate coverage, rebates and other factors, before presenting the final bill to patients.

From BBC • Mar. 23, 2026

Though ravens came and went every day, Lord Tywin himself spent most of his days behind closed doors with his war council.

From "A Clash of Kings" by George R.R. Martin