noun
in secrecy; behind closed doors
Used adverbially as 秘密裏に to describe actions done secretly, confidentially, or without public knowledge. Often used in formal or news contexts.
交渉は秘密裏に行われた。
The negotiations were conducted in secrecy.
その計画は秘密裏に進められている。
The plan is being carried out behind closed doors.
内密 is an adjective/noun meaning 'confidential' or 'private', often used for keeping matters within a limited group. 秘密裏 emphasizes the manner of action being secret, while 内密 focuses on the state of confidentiality.
秘密 is a general noun for 'secret'. 秘密裏 is an adverbial form meaning 'in a secret manner', derived from 秘密.
Compound of 秘密 (secret) and 裏 (back, reverse side), literally 'behind the secret'. The 裏/裡 indicates a hidden or private aspect, giving the meaning 'in secrecy'.