Hey there, English learners! Ever wondered how native speakers talk about secrets without saying the word “secret”? English has tons of fun idioms and expressions to keep things mysterious, hush-hush, or just downright sneaky! In this lesson, you will be learning 15 secret phrases that will make your English sound more natural and exciting.
15 Secret Phrases (And How to Use Them!)
- Keep it under wraps
👉 Meaning: Keep something a secret.
Example: The new project is still under wraps, so don’t tell anyone! 🤐 - Give the game away
👉 Meaning: Accidentally reveal a secret or surprise.
Example: Don’t show her the gift yet, or you’ll give the game away! 🎁 - My lips are sealed
👉 Meaning: Promise to keep a secret.
Example: Don’t worry, I won’t tell anyone. My lips are sealed! - Keep it under your hat
👉 Meaning: Keep something private or confidential.
Example: This is just between us, so keep it under your hat. 🧢 - Don’t spill the beans
👉 Meaning: Don’t reveal a secret or spoil a surprise.
Example: Whatever you do, don’t spill the beans about the party! 🎉 - Mum’s the word
👉 Meaning: Stay silent about something.
Example: Mum’s the word about the promotion until it’s announced. 🤭 - Don’t let the cat out of the bag
👉 Meaning: Don’t accidentally reveal a secret.
Example: The surprise wedding is next week, so don’t let the cat out of the bag! 🐈 - On the quiet
👉 Meaning: Do something secretly or without making it public.
Example: They’ve been dating on the quiet for months. 💕 - Behind closed doors
👉 Meaning: In private, away from the public eye.
Example: All the big decisions happen behind closed doors. 🚪 - In strict confidence
👉 Meaning: Share information only with someone you trust.
Example: I’m telling you this in strict confidence, so don’t repeat it. 🤫 - Be as quiet as a mouse
👉 Meaning: Be very quiet and discreet.
Example: She snuck into the house as quiet as a mouse. 🐭 - On the sly
👉 Meaning: Do something secretly or without others noticing.
Example: He’s been working on a new invention on the sly. 🔬 - Don’t dish the dirt
👉 Meaning: Don’t gossip or share private details.
Example: I don’t like people who dish the dirt on others. 🙅♀️ - Take the lid off
👉 Meaning: Expose a secret or hidden truth.
Example: The journalist’s article took the lid off the corruption scandal. 🕵️ - To be a dark horse
👉 Meaning: Someone who keeps their talents, abilities, or plans a secret.
Example: I didn’t know she could sing so well—she’s such a dark horse! 🎤
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