trusted confidant

USAGE SUMMARY

"trusted confidant" is a perfectly acceptable phrase in written English.
It is used to describe someone that another person trusts completely and can confide in about anything. For example, "John is my trusted confidant; I have been able to tell him all my secrets without fear of judgement."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Martin Bormann was Hitler's most trusted confidant and private secretary.

The Guardian - Books

From 1979 to 1983, Ian Gow was probably the prime minister's most trusted confidant.

The Guardian

Everywhere he goes, so does his wife, Rosalynn, his most trusted confidant.

The New York Times

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

The New York Times - Style

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

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

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Rumsfeld was one of the first President Bush's least favorite people; Gates is one of his most trusted confidants.

The New Yorker

INDIANAPOLIS — The man inside the coffee shop is Bill Belichick's chief of staff, one of his most trusted confidants.

The New York Times - Sports

It also underscored the value the candidate places on having his most trusted confidants as his closest advisers.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "trusted confidant" to describe someone in whom a person places complete faith and reliance, particularly for sensitive matters. It conveys a strong sense of loyalty and discretion.

Common error

While "trusted confidant" is generally acceptable, avoid overusing it in highly formal or academic writing. Consider more nuanced alternatives like "reliable advisor" or "close associate" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "trusted confidant" functions as a noun phrase, where "trusted" modifies the noun "confidant". It describes a person in whom another individual places deep trust and reliance. As Ludwig confirms, it's a common way to describe such a relationship.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Encyclopedias

11%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Science

7%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "trusted confidant" is a commonly used and grammatically correct phrase that describes a person in whom another places deep trust and can confide in. Ludwig confirms its acceptability and widespread usage. Its primary function is to denote a relationship built on trust and discretion. While suitable for various contexts, consider alternatives like "reliable advisor" or "close associate" for more formal settings. When writing, remember that "confidante" is the feminine form. By understanding these nuances, you can effectively use "trusted confidant" in your writing and communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

intimate friend

Emphasizes the personal closeness and emotional connection.

confidential advisor

Underscores the discretion and secrecy involved in the advice.

reliable advisor

Focuses more on the advice-giving aspect of the relationship, implying guidance and counsel.

intimate companion

Highlights the deep connection and shared experiences.

devoted friend

Focuses on the loyalty and dedication within the friendship.

closest companion

Emphasizes the degree of nearness between two individuals.

close advisor

Highlights the advisory role and the personal bond between individuals.

personal consultant

Stresses the personalized advice and support received.

invaluable supporter

Highlights the indispensable assistance provided by the individual.

staunch ally

Implies a strong and dependable supporter, often in a challenging situation.

FAQs

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

You can use "trusted confidant" to describe someone who provides support and guidance, such as, "She is my "trusted confidant"; I always seek her advice on important decisions."

What are some alternatives to "trusted confidant"?

Alternatives include "reliable advisor", "intimate friend", or "close associate", depending on the specific context and relationship you want to describe.

Is "trusted confidante" also correct?

"Confidante" is the feminine form of "confidant", so "trusted confidante" is correct when referring to a female person. "Trusted confidant" is gender neutral.

What qualities define a "trusted confidant"?

A "trusted confidant" is typically characterized by qualities such as discretion, loyalty, empathy, and the ability to offer unbiased advice and support.