strictly secret

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "strictly secret" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe information that is confidential and should not be disclosed to anyone outside a specific group or context. Example: "The details of the operation are strictly secret and must not be shared with anyone outside the team."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

The document was supposed to remain "strictly secret".

The Guardian

He knows better, for he is writing a history based on an ancient "strictly secret" document called "The Cleft".

The New York Times - Books

Since Gallagher suspected the remains could be Earhart's, he shipped the bones and artifacts to British headquarters in Fiji for "strictly secret" examination.

Stanford University

When he told me that the prisoners of war had been killed, he emphasized once more the necessity of keeping it strictly secret in order to avoid disagreeable consequences.

Yale University

(The sessions of the committee are strictly secret and none of its members want to comment on this account, but Mr. Lundestad, who attends all the meetings, says he won't contradict it).

The New York Times

At the time, U.S. government policy was to keep information about hostages strictly secret, for privacy reasons; and yet Diane and Nancy were immensely relieved to learn of another family searching for a son in Syria.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

"They operated strictly in secret," Bowden wrote.

The New Yorker

Sniping that used to take place in the open, then anonymously, is now done strictly in secret.

The New York Times

"The strictly guarded secret of Chinese royalty in antiquity," which "harness the power of energy work, crystal healing, and a Kegel-like physical practice.

Vice

In the case of the Spanish intelligence agency, the National Intelligence Centre (CNI), the key to mass internet surveillance, at least back in 2008, was the Spaniards' ties to a British telecommunications company (again unnamed. Corporate relations are among the most strictly guarded secrets in the intelligence community).

The Guardian

There was, however, no intention in the Public Health Service to terminate the study, and this was not, strictly speaking, a secret study.

Yale University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "strictly secret" when you want to emphasize that information must not be disclosed under any circumstances. This phrase is particularly effective in formal and professional contexts where confidentiality is paramount.

Common error

Avoid using "strictly secret" in casual conversation. The phrase's formality can sound overly dramatic or pretentious in informal settings. Opt for simpler alternatives like "private" or "confidential" in those situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "strictly secret" functions primarily as an adjective phrase modifying a noun, emphasizing the high level of confidentiality associated with it. As Ludwig AI shows, it is often used to describe documents, operations, or identities that must remain undisclosed.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Academia

19%

Science

16%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "strictly secret" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to emphasize the importance of confidentiality. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's particularly effective in formal and professional contexts, as well as news and media. While alternatives like "highly confidential" and "top secret" exist, "strictly secret" carries a unique weight. When using this phrase, be mindful of the context to ensure it aligns with the level of formality. Overusing it in casual settings might sound unnatural. Remember to reserve it for situations where absolute discretion is required.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

highly confidential

Emphasizes the sensitivity of the information.

top secret

Indicates the highest level of classification and confidentiality.

strictly confidential

Similar meaning, but emphasizes the confidential nature.

highly classified

Highlights the formal classification of the information.

completely private

Focuses on the personal nature of the information.

absolutely secret

Emphasizes the complete lack of disclosure.

under wraps

Suggests something is being concealed or kept secret.

hush-hush

Informal term for something secret.

closely guarded

Emphasizes the effort to keep something secret.

off the record

Indicates information not meant for public release.

FAQs

How can I use "strictly secret" in a sentence?

You can use "strictly secret" to emphasize the confidentiality of information, as in "The details of the project are "strictly secret" and must not be disclosed".

What phrases are similar to "strictly secret"?

Alternatives include "highly confidential", "top secret", or "strictly confidential" depending on the degree of sensitivity.

Is it appropriate to use "strictly secret" in informal conversation?

While grammatically correct, "strictly secret" is more suitable for formal contexts. In casual settings, consider using terms like "private" or "confidential" instead.

What is the difference between "strictly secret" and "secret"?

"Secret" simply means something is not known publicly. "Strictly secret" emphasizes that the information must be kept confidential and not shared under any circumstances, adding a layer of imperative.