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Entre nous is a French expression used in English to introduce a private remark or confidential information, meaning “between ourselves” or “in confidence,” and suggesting discretion.
Definition of Entre Nous
/ˌɒn.trəˈnuː/ US /ˌɑːn-/ (Adverb)
Entre nous is an expression borrowed from French that literally means “between us.” In English, it is used when someone wants to share information privately, often emphasizing that the information should not be repeated to others. It can introduce a confidential remark, a personal opinion, or an observation that the speaker does not wish to make public.
The expression is generally associated with formal, sophisticated, or literary language, although it can also appear in ordinary conversation. It is sometimes reinforced by the word strictly, as in “strictly entre nous,” to emphasize that a particular piece of information must remain confidential.
Video of Entre Nous
Synonyms of Entre Nous
There are several expressions that convey a similar meaning:
- Between ourselves
- In confidence
- Privately
- Off the record
- Just between you and me
- In private
These expressions are close equivalents rather than exact synonyms in every context. There is no direct antonym for entre nous, but expressions such as in public and openly convey contrasting ideas.
Entre Nous in Context
During a business meeting, the director waited until the other employees had left before approaching his assistant. “Entre nous,” he said quietly, “the company is considering a major restructuring next year. Nothing has been officially announced, so I would appreciate it if you kept this information confidential.” His assistant nodded, understanding the importance of discretion.
At a family gathering, Sophie leaned toward her sister and whispered, “Entre nous, I don’t think Dad really likes his new neighbor. He is always polite to him, but I can tell he finds him rather annoying.” Her sister laughed softly and replied that she had noticed the same thing. They both agreed that their observation should remain a private family joke.
After the interview, the journalist asked the politician whether he could share some additional information about an upcoming policy announcement. The politician hesitated before saying, “Strictly entre nous, we are still negotiating the final details, and I don’t want anything to appear in the press before we reach an agreement.” The journalist respected his request and agreed not to publish the information.
Origin of Entre Nous
Entre nous originates from French, where entre means “between” and nous means “us.” The expression literally translates as “between us.” It entered English during the late seventeenth century, around 1680–1690, retaining its original French form and its association with private or confidential communication.
