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

The decline in confidence is amplified by the tough job market for recent graduates and uncertainty about the role of artificial intelligence in the workplace.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 9, 2026

However, the new survey found double-digit, across-the-board declines in confidence in the last year, he said.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 16, 2026

They could not get through as easily and, as Spurs saw more of the ball, the hosts grew in confidence bit by bit and built their way back into the game.

From BBC • Feb. 1, 2026

Stidham grew in confidence as the first half progressed, without adding to the lead.

From Barron's • Jan. 25, 2026

The rumors that had been filtering down the backstretch, whispered in confidence between dockers and horsemen, suddenly became noisy public accusations: Something is wrong with Seabiscuit.

From "Seabiscuit: An American Legend" by Laura Hillenbrand

Related Words

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