# confidentially

/ˌkɑnfəˈdɛnʃəɫi/ (US) · /kˌɒnfɪdˈɛnʃəlˌi/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/confidentially
Updated: 2026-10-18

## Definition

in a private way that you do not share with other people.

For teachers: in a way intended to be kept secret or private, with an expectation of non-disclosure.

## Examples

- She tells me everything confidentially and I keep it private.
- He speaks to his lawyer confidentially about the contract before signing anything.
- The report notes that witnesses spoke confidentially because they feared losing their jobs if their names became public.

## Synonyms

privately, secretly

## Antonyms

publicly, openly

## Usage notes

- Manner adverb — typically placed after the verb or at the end of the clause; sentence-initial use signals a private aside to the listener.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.