secret conference; private consultation
Refers to a closed-door meeting or discussion where matters are kept confidential, often within an organization or government.
The matter was decided in a secret conference.
Emphasizes the state or principle of keeping discussions confidential; often used in contexts where confidentiality is paramount.
内議の内容は外部に漏らしてはいけない。
The details of the private consultation must not be leaked outside.
In an organization that values secrecy, information rarely leaks out.
Compound of 内 (inside, internal) and 議 (discussion, deliberation). The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but the word is conventionally associated with internal, confidential discussions.