a cloud of secrecy

USAGE SUMMARY

'a cloud of secrecy' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe a situation in which relevant information is being withheld, or the intent to keep something secret is evident. For example, "The administration had created a cloud of secrecy around the inner workings of the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Instead, watchlisting is being used arbitrarily under a cloud of secrecy.

The Guardian - Opinion

The retailing chief, in a cloud of secrecy, teamed up with TPG and Leonard Green to make a deal.

The New York Times

But I don't think it is acceptable to have a cloud of secrecy hanging over the UK government's negotiating position".

The Guardian

According to the seminal anthology Nightwork, an MIT hack is ingenious, benign, and ephemeral mischief pulled off under a cloud of secrecy or misdirection.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

But there's a cloud of secrecy hanging over this document.

Vice

Today the Chief Financial Officer, Donna Dunnings resigned under a cloud of secrecy.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

In part, frankly, that is because the very subject of child abuse rises and falls behind a cloud of official secrecy and anonymity.

The Guardian - Opinion

While many lawmakers defend members' items as a valid way of distributing state money to worthwhile projects, Gov. Mario M. Cuomo frequently assails the practice because it is done in a virtual cloud of secrecy.

The New York Times

There really hasn't been a big cloud of secrecy surround the BlackBerry  href="http://www.crunchgear.com/tag/8350i/">8350i, but the iDEN-packing BlackBerry is finally official.

TechCrunch

The ethics committee wraps its investigations in a thick cloud of secrecy.

Huffington Post

Ambling through the Names of the Months while prodding like a quidnune will disclose that "He or She who Pryeth into Every Tacked-on Cloud of Secrecy May be Struck Like a Thunderbolt" All This And Braunschweiger Too! (Liver Sausage with Bacon) Smoked.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When employing "a cloud of secrecy", ensure that the surrounding text provides enough context to understand the subject being concealed and the potential reasons for the secrecy. This enhances the impact of the phrase.

Common error

Avoid using "a cloud of secrecy" in situations where simple privacy or confidentiality is sufficient. The phrase implies a more deliberate and potentially problematic level of concealment.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a cloud of secrecy" functions as a noun phrase. It typically acts as a subject complement or an object, describing the atmosphere or conditions surrounding a particular event, action, or organization. Ludwig provides numerous examples of its usage in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a cloud of secrecy" is a noun phrase that describes a situation characterized by a lack of transparency and hidden information. According to Ludwig, it often carries negative connotations, implying that something is being concealed for potentially unethical or illegal reasons. This phrase is most commonly found in news and media contexts, but also appears in academic and scientific writing. While not extremely frequent, its usage is consistent and contributes to conveying suspicion, intrigue, or concern. When employing "a cloud of secrecy", it's crucial to consider the intended impact and ensure it aligns with the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Veil of secrecy

Focuses on something being covered or hidden.

Cloak of secrecy

Emphasizes deliberate concealment.

Air of mystery

Highlights the enigmatic nature of a situation.

Under wraps

Suggests that something is being kept secret temporarily.

Behind closed doors

Focuses on privacy during discussions or decision-making.

In strict confidence

Highlights the requirement for confidentiality.

Secretive atmosphere

Describes an environment where secrecy prevails.

Lack of transparency

Directly states the absence of openness.

Confidential nature

Emphasizes the sensitivity of the information.

Secret undertaking

Focuses on the hidden nature of the activity.

FAQs

How can I use "a cloud of secrecy" in a sentence?

You can use "a cloud of secrecy" to describe situations where there is a deliberate attempt to keep information hidden or obscure. For example: "The company operated under "a cloud of secrecy", refusing to disclose its financial records."

What's the difference between "a veil of secrecy" and "a cloud of secrecy"?

"A veil of secrecy" suggests a thin covering, implying that the secret might be easily penetrated. "A cloud of secrecy" suggests a larger, more pervasive concealment, making the truth harder to discern.

What are some synonyms for "a cloud of secrecy"?

Synonyms include "cloak of secrecy", "air of mystery", and "lack of transparency". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "a cloud of secrecy" a positive or negative term?

"A cloud of secrecy" typically has negative connotations, suggesting that something is being hidden for potentially unethical or illegal reasons. However, in certain contexts, it may simply refer to necessary confidentiality.