a trusted confidant

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a trusted confidant" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to someone who is reliable and to whom one can share personal thoughts or secrets. Example: "In times of trouble, I always turn to Sarah, my trusted confidant, for advice and support."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

A wealthy nobleman and formerly a trusted confidant of the imperial family, Chonghou, then 54, was in prison awaiting decapitation.

The Economist

He is a trusted confidant of Coach Mike Woodson, who lured him out of a two-year retirement last fall.

The New York Times - Sports

I know how difficult this is, even in the privacy of a quiet room with a trusted confidant.

The Guardian

Although Low held no formal position in the Malaysian government, he had become a trusted confidant to the prime minister.

The Guardian

Life coaches are typically external to the organization and are called upon as a trusted confidant and advisor when needed.

Harvard Business Review

Instead, Mr. Weill appointed Mr. Prince, a trusted confidant and a skilled corporate lawyer, to guide the bank through a difficult time with regulators last September.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

But what it really needs is a consigliere-type figure, like the Tom Hagen character superbly played by Robert Duvall in the Godfather trilogy as go-between for the Corleone and Barzini crime families; someone who is a close and trusted confidant of both Cheika and Pulver, is devoid of ambition, has a deft, soft touch and is valued for giving disinterested advice.

The Guardian - Sport

Mr. Bergé became a friend and trusted confidant of President Mitterrand.

The New York Times - Style

They serve as our most trusted confidant, a source of laughter and smiles, and an all-around distraction from the reality of our infertility.

Huffington Post

He skillfully manipulates all those around him, even his wife (Francesca Faridany), while his trusted confidant (a superb Michael Siberry) sustains him.

Huffington Post

Franco Gozzi was a former journalist who had become Ferrari's trusted confidant, the equivalent of a papal consigliere.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a trusted confidant" when you want to emphasize the reliability and discretion of someone to whom personal thoughts and feelings are revealed. It's often used in professional or formal contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "a trusted confidant" in very informal or casual settings. Opt for terms like "close friend" or "buddy" instead, as they better suit the context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a trusted confidant" functions as a noun phrase, where "trusted" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "confidant". It describes someone who is reliable and discreet, suitable for sharing personal matters, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

20%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Science

10%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a trusted confidant" is a noun phrase used to describe someone reliable and discreet, fit for sharing personal matters. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. It's most common in news and media, encyclopedias, and wiki contexts, with a slightly formal tone. Related phrases include "a close advisor" and "a reliable friend". When using the phrase, emphasize the reliability and discretion of the person, and avoid using it in very informal settings. Remember, "confidant" already implies friendship, so "confidant friend" is redundant. As Ludwig suggests, alternatives such as "close advisor" or "personal confidante" may be suitable depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a personal confidante

Stresses the personal nature of the relationship and the secrets shared.

a trusted advisor

Highlights the advisory role and the trust placed in that person.

a close advisor

Focuses on the advisory role and the closeness of the relationship.

a reliable friend

Emphasizes the reliability and friendship aspect.

a faithful ally

Stresses loyalty and support, often in a challenging situation.

a devoted friend

Focuses on the dedication and friendship aspects.

a close associate

Highlights a professional connection with an element of personal closeness.

a keeper of secrets

Highlights the role of someone who can be trusted with sensitive information.

a sounding board

Emphasizes the function of someone who listens and provides feedback.

a bosom buddy

An informal and affectionate term for a very close friend.

FAQs

How can I use "a trusted confidant" in a sentence?

You can use "a trusted confidant" to describe someone to whom you can confide your secrets and innermost thoughts. For example, "She is not just my colleague, but also "a trusted confidant"."

What are some alternatives to "a trusted confidant"?

Alternatives include "a close advisor", "a reliable friend", or "a personal confidante" depending on the specific context.

Is it redundant to say "a trusted confidant friend"?

Yes, it is redundant. The word "confidant" already implies a close and trusting relationship, so adding "friend" is unnecessary.

When is it appropriate to use the term "a trusted confidant"?

The term "a trusted confidant" is suitable in situations where you want to emphasize the high level of trust and discretion involved in the relationship, especially in professional or formal contexts. If you are talking about a friend use a simple alternative such as "reliable friend".