Translation guide
Expressing that something must be kept completely secret, with no exceptions. Japanese uses set phrases and emphatic adverbs to convey 'absolute secrecy'.
The speaker emphasizes that information must not be shared with anyone, often in formal or serious contexts.
A noun meaning 'top secret' or 'strict confidentiality'. Commonly used in official, business, or military contexts. Can be used as '極秘の' to modify a noun.
この情報は極秘です。
This information is top secret.
極秘文書を扱う。
Handle top-secret documents.
Literally 'absolute secret'. A straightforward compound that directly translates the English concept. Less common than 極秘 but easily understood.
これは絶対秘密だ。
This is an absolute secret.
Loanword from English 'top secret'. Used in casual or media contexts, but sounds less formal than 極秘.
その計画はトップシークレットだ。
That plan is top secret.
The speaker assures someone that they will absolutely not reveal a secret, often in personal conversations.
Means 'I will absolutely not tell'. The adverb 絶対に (absolutely) combined with the negative verb 言わない (won't say) creates a strong promise of secrecy.
誰にも絶対に言わないから、教えて。
I absolutely won't tell anyone, so tell me.
このことは絶対に言わないと約束する。
I promise I will absolutely not tell anyone about this.
An idiomatic expression meaning 'to be tight-lipped' or 'able to keep a secret'. Describes a person who can be trusted with secrets.
彼は口が堅いから安心だ。
He's tight-lipped, so we can trust him.
Literally 'take it to the grave'. A dramatic way to promise absolute secrecy, implying you will never reveal the secret even after death.
この秘密は墓場まで持っていくよ。
I'll take this secret to my grave.
The speaker demands or instructs that something be kept completely secret, often in a commanding tone.
A formal, set phrase meaning 'do not tell others' or 'keep it to yourself'. Often used in written notices or strict verbal warnings.
この件は他言無用でお願いします。
Please keep this matter strictly confidential.
A casual noun meaning 'secret'. Often used in the phrase '内緒だよ' (it's a secret) or '内緒にしてね' (keep it a secret). Suitable for friendly, informal contexts.
Literally 'impose a gag order'. Used in formal or organizational contexts when an authority forbids discussion of a matter.
会社はその事件について箝口令を敷いた。
The company imposed a gag order regarding the incident.
This is a secret. Don't tell anyone.