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

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 like the way that he started to blossom a bit and you could see him gaining in confidence.

From BBC • Jun. 7, 2026

Corcoran added: “He has grown in confidence, and I think he’s grown in an understanding of his own power to get things done.”

From The Wall Street Journal • May 14, 2026

In a statement responding to the US plans, Afghanistan's foreign ministry said nationals abroad could return in "confidence and peace of mind", insisting there was no safety threat.

From Barron's • Apr. 27, 2026

I don’t think Coach should be telling me what Boy21 says to his grandparents in confidence, but he keeps talking.

From "Boy21" by Matthew Quick

Related Words

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