内密(ないみつ)

Used to describe information or matters that should not be disclosed to others. Functions as both a noun and a na-adjective. Common in business and formal contexts when discussing sensitive information.

Common collocations

• 内密(ないみつ)にする: to keep confidential
• 内密(ないみつ)の話(はなし): a private conversation
• 内密(ないみつ)に処理(しょり)する: to handle discreetly
• 内密(ないみつ)に進(すす)める: to proceed in secret

Similar words

• 秘密(ひみつ): secret — broader and more common, used for everything from personal secrets to classified information, while 内密(ないみつ) has a more formal, discreet nuance and implies keeping something within a trusted circle
• 極秘(ごくひ): top secret — much stronger than 内密(ないみつ), implying the highest level of confidentiality