betray confidence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "betray confidence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the act of revealing someone's trust or secrets, often in a negative context. Example: "He felt that his friend had betrayed his confidence by sharing his personal struggles with others."

✓ Grammatically correct

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Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

The personal advisers can be too controlling, the critics say; they may betray confidences, and too often they supplant the role of priest.

The New York Times

The subsequent, solemn, repetition of oaths by each successive incoming minister and junior minister they pledged not to betray confidences, to respect sovereignty of India and more did begin to pall by the second hour.

The Economist

But it appears that he was offended by Mr. Osborne's violation of something known informally as the "house-party rule," which holds that you do not betray confidences told to you by fellow guests at a friend's house.

The New York Times

I'm not going to betray confidences but Ian has said that, while he has been pretty certain for some time about the core of the squad, it will be the last 10 selections that decide whether the tour is a success.

The Guardian - Sport

They set up coworkers, betray confidences and undercut good work because it is a threat to them.

Forbes

As an artist he was close to Daumier and, with his aura of surrealism, to Magritte, as in "The Betrayed Confidence," a series of pernicious postcards, closing with wordless pictures: a dangling rope, an empty frying pan, an unmarked grave.

The New York Times - Arts

Few writers have betrayed confidences with such uninhibited malice.

The New York Times - Books

Why not? "Fear of betraying confidences," he says, shifting in his chair.

The Guardian

And, of course, women are capable of betraying confidences, and men are capable of extremely generous and selfless acts.

The New York Times

A fashionable androgyne, Paul Wharton, acts quickly to gin up some ill will between two of the women, betraying confidences with the sassy snap of a finger.

The Washington Post

For nine days in Europe and the Middle East, Trump shoved, hectored and lectured, betraying confidences and demonstrating an ignorance of world affairs.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "betray confidence", ensure the context clearly establishes a prior relationship of trust that has been violated. Consider whether a more specific term like "divulge secrets" or "breach confidentiality" might be more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "betray confidence" when there was no prior expectation of privacy or trust. For instance, revealing information that was already publicly available is not considered "betraying confidence".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "betray confidence" functions primarily as a verb phrase where "betray" (verb) acts upon "confidence" (noun). It describes the act of violating a trust by revealing information that was shared with the expectation of privacy. Ludwig AI, while confirming the phrase's correctness, lacks examples to fully illustrate its nuances in different contexts.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

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Less common in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "betray confidence" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe the act of violating trust by revealing private information. Although Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, the absence of examples suggests a need for careful consideration of context. Alternative phrases like "violate trust" or "divulge secrets" may be more appropriate depending on the specific nuance desired. When using the phrase, ensure that a prior relationship of trust exists and that the information revealed was genuinely confidential. By understanding these nuances, writers can effectively convey the negative implications of "betraying confidence".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

violate trust

Focuses on the breach of trust, omitting the specific act of revealing secrets.

breach confidentiality

Highlights the breaking of a confidentiality agreement or understanding.

divulge secrets

Emphasizes the act of revealing secrets, without necessarily implying a prior trust.

reveal confidences

Similar to "betray confidence" but uses "reveal" instead of "betray", softening the negative connotation.

break a confidence

Focuses on breaking a specific instance of trust or secret-keeping.

stab in the back

An idiomatic expression that suggests a betrayal of trust, often with malicious intent.

double-cross

Implies a deliberate act of betrayal, often in a deceitful or manipulative way.

sell out

Suggests betraying a group, cause, or ideal for personal gain.

turncoat

Implies switching allegiance, betraying a previous loyalty.

act disloyally

A more general term for acting in a way that violates loyalty or trust.

FAQs

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

You can use "betray confidence" to describe the act of someone revealing sensitive or private information that was shared with them under the assumption of trust. For example, "He felt that his friend "violated his trust" when he "divulged secrets" to his rivals."

What's the difference between "betray confidence" and "violate trust"?

"Betray confidence" specifically refers to the act of revealing secrets or private information, whereas "violate trust" is a broader term that encompasses any action that breaks the trust between individuals or groups. One may violate trust without revealing secrets, but "betraying confidence" always involves a breach of privacy.

What can I say instead of "betray confidence"?

Alternatives to "betray confidence" include "reveal confidences", "divulge secrets", "breach confidentiality", or "break a confidence". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

In what situations is it inappropriate to use the phrase "betray confidence"?

It's inappropriate to use "betray confidence" when the information revealed was already public knowledge, or when there was no prior agreement or expectation of privacy. Also, avoid using the phrase if the information was disclosed for a legitimate reason, such as to prevent harm or illegal activity.