under wraps

USAGE SUMMARY

"under wraps" is a commonly used phrase in English.
You can use it to describe a situation in which something is kept secret or hidden. For example, you could say "The details of the project were kept under wraps until the official launch."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

under wraps.

The New York Times

Johnson remains under wraps.

The New York Times - Sports

This has been kind of under wraps.

The New York Times

I've gotta keep that under wraps".

The Guardian - Music

How did you keep it under wraps?

The New York Times - Magazine

We need to keep that under wraps".

The New Yorker

Such details are still kept under wraps.

The New York Times

Producers keep deal-making under wraps.

The New York Times

Hamm keeps it under wraps.

The New York Times - Sports

(She keeps her real name under wraps).

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Apply an under-wrap.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "under wraps" when you want to emphasize the secrecy or confidentiality surrounding a particular piece of information or activity. It suggests a deliberate effort to keep something hidden.

Common error

Avoid using "under wraps" if the information is simply not yet available but will be disclosed soon. The phrase implies a deliberate attempt to conceal, not just a delay in release.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "under wraps" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to indicate the manner in which an action is performed, specifically in a secret or concealed way. Ludwig AI shows that it is commonly used to describe how information or plans are being handled.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

97%

Wiki

1%

Science

1%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "under wraps" is a common and versatile expression used to describe something that is being kept secret or hidden. According to Ludwig AI, it functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, emphasizing the manner in which information or plans are handled. Its neutral register makes it suitable for various contexts, particularly in News & Media. To avoid misuse, remember that "under wraps" implies a deliberate act of concealment, not just a delay in disclosure.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

kept secret

Emphasizes the act of concealing information.

confidential

Highlights the sensitive nature of the information.

in secrecy

Focuses on the manner in which something is done.

not disclosed

Directly states that the information has not been revealed.

under seal

Suggests a formal or legal requirement of secrecy.

classified

Indicates that information is officially designated as secret.

hush-hush

An informal way to describe something kept secret.

behind closed doors

Suggests that discussions or decisions are made privately.

off the record

Indicates that information is not intended for public release.

in the dark

Describes a state of being uninformed or unaware.

FAQs

How can I use "under wraps" in a sentence?

You can use "under wraps" to describe situations where information is being kept secret. For example, "The details of the merger are being kept "under wraps" until the official announcement".

What does it mean to keep something "under wraps"?

Keeping something "under wraps" means maintaining its secrecy and preventing it from being known publicly. It suggests a deliberate effort to conceal information.

What are some alternatives to "under wraps"?

Alternatives to "under wraps" include "kept secret", "confidential", or "not disclosed". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is "under wraps" formal or informal?

"Under wraps" is generally considered neutral in tone, suitable for most contexts. However, more formal situations might call for alternatives like "confidential" or "classified".