Ah, the time-honored tradition of sharing juicy tidbits under a veneer of confidentiality—“in strictest confidence.” This phrase is the conversational equivalent of cloak and dagger. Among its lesser-known siblings are “between you, me, and the bedpost,” suggesting one’s trust extends only as far as inanimate pieces of furniture can keep a secret—and “between you and me and the lamppost,” perhaps for those who prefer some streetwise flair in their confidences. The concept is simple: I have information you’ll want, and all you have to do is swear to keep it under your hat. Which, by the way, probably can’t metaphorically hold what I’m about to unload.
🎯 What Does it Mean?
“In strictest confidence” is often uttered just before launching into gossip, secrets, or classified tidbits. This declaration acts like a pseudo-NDA, notwithstanding that compliance usually hangs by a thread. It’s an attempt to preface what is likely about to be a confidence-blur.
Similar Terms:
- 🔒 On the QT
- 🤫 Mum’s the word
- 🧩 Keep it under wraps
- ❗ Don’t let the cat out of the bag
Synonyms:
- Privately
- Confidentially
- Secretly
- Off the record
Antonyms:
- Openly
- Publicly
- Transparently
Quotes 🗣️
“The best way to keep one’s word is not to give it.” —Napoleon Bonaparte (because even the little General knew chatting often leads to chaos)
“Three may keep a secret if two of them are dead.” —Benjamin Franklin (a little dark, Ben, but succinct)
Proverbs:
- “A secret between two is God’s secret; a secret between three is all men’s.”
Suggested Literature 📚:
- ‘Eugene Aram’ by Edward Bulwer-Lytton (1832): The birthplace of the “bedpost” version—crime, passion, and secrets galore.
- ‘Bleak House’ by Charles Dickens: For more on Victorian-era social intricacies and concealed truths.
Movies 🍿:
- ‘National Treasure’: For seeing secrets that open the doors of history.
- ‘The Da Vinci Code’: Conspiracies and secrets unfold thrillingly, much like gossip in coffee shops.
Songs 🎵
- “Secret” by Madonna: Because, well, whatever you think you know, there’s always more.
- “Tell Me Something I Don’t Know” by Selena Gomez: Soundtrack for youthful exuberance in unmasking hidden truths.
As we wind down this secret-packed adventure, remember, while sharing confidences, get a trustworthy confidante—or something inanimate like a bedpost! Keep the fun alive, stay witty, and may your secrets be safe and your gossip well-buffered.
Inspirationally yours, W. T. Wittywords, 2023-10-10
