Behind closed doors
adverbial phrase
In private, away from the observation of others.
The board members meet behind closed doors to discuss their future strategies.

Often appears as...
- meetings behind closed doors
- talks behind closed doors
Usage tips
Idiomatic
adverbial phrase
To do something in a hidden or confidential environment or situation.
The decisions about the budget were made behind closed doors.

Often appears as...
- decided behind closed doors
- conducted behind closed doors
Usage tips
Idiomatic
adverbial phrase
In private, away from the observation of others.
The board members meet behind closed doors to discuss their future strategies.

Often appears as...
- meetings behind closed doors
- talks behind closed doors
Usage tips
Idiomatic
adverbial phrase
To do something in a hidden or confidential environment or situation.
The decisions about the budget were made behind closed doors.

Often appears as...
- decided behind closed doors
- conducted behind closed doors
Usage tips
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 2

Confidential Context
Used when referring to sensitive matters needing privacy.

The HR issues are often resolved behind closed doors, to protect privacy.
Exclusive Meetings
Indicates exclusive meetings, not open to general public or media.

The executive session was held behind closed doors, with no press admitted.
Discretion
Highlights the importance of discretion or secrecy in certain situations.

Witness protection strategies are discussed behind closed doors for safety reasons.
Confidential Context
Used when referring to sensitive matters needing privacy.

The HR issues are often resolved behind closed doors, to protect privacy.
Exclusive Meetings
Indicates exclusive meetings, not open to general public or media.

The executive session was held behind closed doors, with no press admitted.
Discretion
Highlights the importance of discretion or secrecy in certain situations.

Witness protection strategies are discussed behind closed doors for safety reasons.
Confidential Context
Used when referring to sensitive matters needing privacy.

The HR issues are often resolved behind closed doors, to protect privacy.
Exclusive Meetings
Indicates exclusive meetings, not open to general public or media.

The executive session was held behind closed doors, with no press admitted.
Discretion
Highlights the importance of discretion or secrecy in certain situations.

Witness protection strategies are discussed behind closed doors for safety reasons.
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