In confidence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "In confidence" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used when sharing information that is meant to be kept secret or private between the parties involved. Example: "I wanted to discuss this matter with you in confidence, as it involves sensitive information."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Not in confidence.

The New York Times

This will be treated in confidence".

Independent

How skewed is this difference in confidence?

The New York Times

'We are lacking in confidence.

The Guardian - Sport

Celtic slowly grew in confidence.

The Guardian - Sport

"And it remained in confidence.

The Guardian

He might need a boost in confidence".

The Guardian

And he was growing in confidence.

The Guardian

But he isn't lacking in confidence.

The Guardian - Music

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

The government has said these documents are commercial-in-confidence.

The Guardian

The government has said these are commercial-in-confidence.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "in confidence", be prepared to actively safeguard the information. This includes avoiding discussing it in public spaces or via unsecured communication channels.

Common error

Avoid assuming that using the phrase "in confidence" automatically guarantees secrecy. Explicitly define the boundaries of what information is covered and who is bound by the agreement to maintain privacy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in confidence" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to indicate the manner in which information is conveyed. As Ludwig AI explains, it denotes that something is shared privately and should not be disclosed further. It serves to establish a level of trust and discretion.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Formal & Business

33%

Science

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "in confidence" serves as an adverbial phrase that underscores the private nature of a shared communication. While grammatically correct and usable, as validated by Ludwig AI, its usage is relatively uncommon. Predominantly found in news and media, as well as formal business contexts, it aims to ensure discretion and trust. Alternatives like "confidentially" or "privately" offer similar meanings. Use this phrase thoughtfully, ensuring you're prepared to uphold the confidentiality it implies.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

In strict confidence

Adds emphasis to the confidentiality, suggesting a high level of discretion.

Confidentially

Focuses on the manner of sharing information, emphasizing its private nature.

Privately

Highlights the restricted audience or setting for the information being shared.

Off the record

Specifies that the information is not intended for public dissemination or attribution.

In secrecy

Focuses on the condition of being kept secret.

In secret

Emphasizes the hidden or concealed nature of the information.

As a secret

Reframes the information as something explicitly not to be shared.

Between ourselves

Highlights the exclusive nature of the shared knowledge, limited to the speakers.

Between you and me

Similar to "between ourselves", emphasizing the personal and exclusive nature of the shared knowledge.

Under the rose

A more figurative expression indicating secrecy and confidentiality.

FAQs

How can I use "in confidence" in a sentence?

You can use "in confidence" to indicate that information is shared privately and should not be disclosed to others. For example, "I'm telling you this "in confidence"; please don't share it with anyone else."

What's the difference between "in confidence" and "confidentially"?

"In confidence" is a prepositional phrase that sets the stage for a private communication, while "confidentially" is an adverb that describes the manner in which something is communicated. They both convey a similar meaning but are used differently grammatically.

What can I say instead of "in confidence"?

You can use alternatives like "privately", "off the record", or "between ourselves", depending on the context.

Is it always appropriate to share something "in confidence"?

While sharing information "in confidence" can build trust, it's important to consider the potential consequences. Ensure that you are prepared to keep the information secret and that sharing it won't cause harm or violate any ethical or legal obligations.