Translation guide
In Japanese, expressing 'confidential talk' depends heavily on context and relationship. The most natural approach is often to describe the situation or use set phrases rather than a single noun. This guide covers ways to talk about secrets, private conversations, and off-the-record discussions.
Referring to a talk that is meant to be kept secret between the speakers.
A very common, casual way to say 'secret talk' or 'confidential conversation'. Used among friends, family, or close colleagues.
This is confidential, but I'm changing jobs next month.
Literally 'secret talk'. Slightly more formal than 内緒の話, but still natural in everyday conversation.
I have something confidential to tell you, but don't tell anyone.
A formal or literary term for a secret talk or private conference. Often used in political or business contexts.
The two leaders held confidential talks for several hours.
A conversation not meant for public knowledge, often in professional settings.
Borrowed from English 'off the record', this is widely understood in Japanese, especially in media and business.
This is off the record, but the president might resign.
Means 'closed-door discussion' or 'private meeting'. Suitable for formal contexts.
A set phrase meaning 'just between us' or 'this is strictly confidential'. Very natural in casual and semi-formal speech.
A conversation conducted in low voices to avoid being overheard.
Japanese often omits the subject and relies on context. Instead of saying 'We had a confidential talk', you might simply say 'I heard something in secret' using 内緒で聞いた (ないしょできいた).
The English phrase 'confidential talk' can sound stiff if translated literally as 機密の会話 (きみつのかいわ), which is more about classified information. Stick to the natural phrases above.
Confidential talks were held on that issue.
Just between us, I hear he's being transferred next month.
They were talking confidentially in hushed voices.