English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
Behind closed doors
Meaning
The idiom "behind closed doors" refers to a situation or conversation that is kept secret or hidden from the public eye, often because it is considered private or confidential. It suggests a clandestine or illicit activity taking place in a room where others are not present.
Usage
- The politicians were discussing their latest plan behind closed doors, and it was never made public.
- I heard they were having an affair behind closed doors for years.
- The company had been engaged in shady business practices behind closed doors that eventually led to its bankruptcy.
- Despite appearing friendly in public, the two friends had a falling out behind closed doors.
- The CEO's resignation came as a surprise to everyone, but it was rumored that there were issues behind closed doors that led to his departure.
Roots and History
The origin of this idiom is uncertain, but it has been in use since the 17th century. One theory suggests that it comes from the medieval practice of hiding illegal activities or contraband items behind closed doors. Another theory is that it refers to secret meetings or discussions held in private rooms during political campaigns or other important events. Over time, the meaning and usage of this idiom have evolved slightly. It has come to be used more broadly to refer to any situation or conversation that is kept secret or hidden from others, even if it is not necessarily illicit or illegal.
Synonyms in English
- In private
- Confidentially
- Secretly
- Behind screens
- Under wraps
Synonyms in other languages
- Spanish: En privado (Private)
- French: À l'abri ou à couvert (Under cover or in private)
- German: Im Vertraue oder In der Verbindung (In confidence or in connection)
- Italian: In rimaia o in confidenza (In private or in confidence)
- Chinese: 闭门口 (Closed door)