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de confidencialidad

B1 adjective 12 min read

de confidencialidad

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips de confidencialidad in 30 Seconds

Explanation de confidencialidad in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'de confidencialidad' is a complex phrase that you might not need to use actively, but you should recognize it as related to 'secrets'. Think of it as a way to say 'of secrets' in a very formal way. You might see it on a website or a simple form in a doctor's office. At this stage, focus on the root word 'confidencial', which looks like 'confidential' in English. If you see 'de confidencialidad', just know it means that the information is private and you shouldn't share it with others. It is often paired with 'acuerdo' (agreement). Even if you can't explain the grammar, knowing that it means 'private' is enough for now. You might hear a teacher say 'Es un secreto', but a boss would say 'Es un asunto de confidencialidad'. Try to remember that 'de' means 'of', so it is 'of confidentiality'.

At the A2 level, you can start to understand that 'de confidencialidad' is used in specific settings like work or the doctor. You should be able to identify it in phrases like 'contrato de confidencialidad' (confidentiality contract). You are learning that Spanish often uses 'de' to join two nouns where English just puts them together. This is a great example of that pattern. You might use this phrase if you are filling out an application or visiting a clinic. If someone says 'Es por motivos de confidencialidad', they are telling you 'I can't tell you because it's a secret'. You don't need to use it in complex sentences yet, but you should be able to say 'Firmé un papel de confidencialidad' (I signed a confidentiality paper) to describe a simple action at work. It helps to distinguish this from 'confianza' (trust), which is about your feelings for a friend.

At the B1 level, you should be comfortable using 'de confidencialidad' in professional and formal contexts. This is the level where you understand the difference between 'información confidencial' (the adjective) and 'acuerdo de confidencialidad' (the noun phrase). You should be able to explain why you cannot share certain information using the phrase 'por motivos de confidencialidad'. You are expected to know common collocations like 'cláusula de confidencialidad' and 'deber de confidencialidad'. You can now use it in more complex sentences, such as 'La empresa nos pidió firmar un acuerdo de confidencialidad para proteger sus secretos'. You also start to understand the cultural importance of privacy in Spanish-speaking countries and how this phrase is a key part of professional ethics. You should be able to handle a basic discussion about data privacy (privacidad) versus professional secrets (confidencialidad).

At the B2 level, you have a nuanced understanding of 'de confidencialidad' and can use it fluently in business and legal discussions. You understand that it implies a legal obligation, not just a social one. You can use verbs like 'incumplir', 'vulnerar', or 'respetar' in combination with this phrase. You might discuss the 'política de confidencialidad' of a company in detail, or debate the limits of the 'deber de confidencialidad' in journalism or medicine. You are aware that 'de confidencialidad' is the standard term for NDAs and can use it accurately in professional writing. You can also distinguish it from related terms like 'reservado' or 'bajo secreto de sumario'. Your use of the phrase is natural, and you don't confuse it with 'confianza'. You understand that 'de confidencialidad' adds a layer of formal protection and serious consequences to a conversation.

At the C1 level, you use 'de confidencialidad' with precision in high-level professional environments. You are aware of the legal frameworks surrounding the phrase, such as the RGPD in Spain or similar laws in Latin America. You can draft emails or documents that include 'cláusulas de confidencialidad' and understand the specific legal weight they carry. You can participate in complex negotiations where 'acuerdos de confidencialidad' are a primary topic. You recognize the stylistic difference between 'de confidencialidad' and more obscure legal terms like 'sigilo profesional'. You can analyze how the phrase is used in contracts to limit liability and can explain these nuances to others. Your pronunciation is clear, including the often-dropped final 'd', and you use the phrase with the appropriate formal register in all settings.

At the C2 level, you have a masterly command of the phrase 'de confidencialidad' and its place within the broader legal and ethical landscape of the Spanish-speaking world. You can discuss the philosophical and legal origins of 'confidencialidad' and its relationship to 'intimidad' and 'honor'. You can interpret complex legal texts where 'deberes de confidencialidad' are balanced against other rights, like the right to information. You use the phrase in a way that is indistinguishable from a native speaker, including the use of subtle rhetorical devices. You can explain the differences in how 'acuerdos de confidencialidad' are enforced in different Spanish-speaking jurisdictions. You are also aware of the most formal synonyms, such as 'confidencialidad recíproca' or 'compromiso de no divulgación', and can use them to add variety and precision to your speech and writing.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

de confidencialidad in 30 Seconds

A formal Spanish phrase used to describe legal or professional secrecy obligations, most often found in contracts, medical documents, and corporate policies.
Functions as an adjectival phrase (e.g., 'acuerdo de confidencialidad' = confidentiality agreement) and always follows the noun it modifies in Spanish sentences.
Essential for professional communication, particularly when discussing non-disclosure agreements (NDAs), data protection (RGPD), or ethical duties in healthcare and law.
Often confused with 'confidencial' (the adjective) or 'confianza' (trust), but specifically refers to the concept and framework of protecting secret information.

The Spanish phrase de confidencialidad is a prepositional construction that functions as an adjective in English, most commonly translated as 'confidentiality' (when modifying a noun) or 'non-disclosure'. It is derived from the noun confidencialidad, which refers to the state of being kept secret or private. In professional, legal, and medical contexts, this phrase is ubiquitous. It describes the legal and ethical obligation to protect sensitive information from unauthorized access or disclosure. Unlike the simple adjective confidencial (confidential), which describes the nature of the information itself, de confidencialidad usually describes the mechanisms, agreements, or duties surrounding that information.

Legal and Business Context: In the business world, you will almost always see this phrase paired with acuerdo (agreement) or contrato (contract). An 'acuerdo de confidencialidad' is the Spanish equivalent of a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA). It is a binding document where parties agree not to share proprietary information, trade secrets, or client data. Use this when discussing employment terms, mergers, or creative collaborations.

Antes de empezar el proyecto, todos los ingenieros deben firmar un acuerdo de confidencialidad estricto.

Medical and Ethical Context: In healthcare, the 'deber de confidencialidad' (duty of confidentiality) is a cornerstone of the doctor-patient relationship. It ensures that medical history and personal details remain between the provider and the patient. This isn't just a suggestion; it is a professional requirement that, if breached, can lead to severe legal consequences in Spanish-speaking jurisdictions.

El médico tiene un deber de confidencialidad con respecto a los resultados del paciente.

The phrase is also vital in the digital age, particularly regarding data protection laws like the GDPR (known as RGPD in Spanish). Websites and apps will have a política de confidencialidad (privacy/confidentiality policy) that explains how user data is handled. Understanding this phrase is essential for navigating modern bureaucratic and professional environments in any Spanish-speaking country. It signals a high level of formality and legal seriousness. If someone asks you to maintain 'absoluta confidencialidad' or refers to a 'cláusula de confidencialidad', they are emphasizing that the information is restricted and its disclosure could have repercussions. It is less about 'trust' (confianza) and more about 'secrecy' and 'legal protection'.

La empresa rompió la cláusula de confidencialidad al filtrar los correos electrónicos.

Interpersonal Sensitivity: While often formal, it can appear in serious personal conversations. For example, if a friend tells you a secret involving a legal matter, they might say, 'Esto es un asunto de confidencialidad total'. It implies that the information is not just a gossip-worthy secret, but something that requires professional-level discretion.

Por motivos de confidencialidad, no puedo revelar quién es el nuevo director.

El contrato incluye un compromiso de confidencialidad de cinco años.

Using the phrase de confidencialidad correctly requires understanding its role as a modifier. In Spanish, adjectives and modifying phrases typically follow the noun they describe. Because this is a prepositional phrase starting with 'de', it acts like an adjective to specify the type or purpose of a noun. You will rarely find it standing alone; it is almost always attached to nouns like acuerdo, contrato, cláusula, política, or deber. To master its usage, you must pair it with the correct noun to match the context of the situation.

The 'De' Construction: English often uses 'confidentiality' as a noun adjunct (e.g., 'confidentiality agreement'). Spanish cannot do this. You must use 'de' to link the two nouns. For example, 'Confidentiality clause' becomes 'Cláusula de confidencialidad'. If you omit the 'de', the sentence becomes grammatically incorrect and nonsensical.

Leímos la política de confidencialidad antes de aceptar las cookies del sitio web.

Expressing Obligation: When you want to say someone is bound by confidentiality, you use verbs like tener, mantener, or estar sujeto a. For instance, 'Tengo un compromiso de confidencialidad' (I have a confidentiality commitment). This structure is very common in job interviews or when discussing sensitive projects with colleagues.

Debemos mantener un nivel de confidencialidad muy alto en esta investigación.

Another common usage pattern is the phrase por motivos de confidencialidad (for confidentiality reasons). This is a standard polite way to decline answering a question or providing data. If a journalist asks a CEO about a secret merger, the CEO might reply, 'No puedo comentar por motivos de confidencialidad'. This phrase acts as a professional shield, indicating that the speaker is not being rude, but is legally or ethically restricted from speaking.

Por razones de confidencialidad, los nombres de los testigos no serán publicados.

Verbs Commonly Used: Common verbs that precede the noun modified by 'de confidencialidad' include firmar (to sign), violar (to violate/break), respetar (to respect), and garantizar (to guarantee). For example, 'Garantizamos la máxima política de confidencialidad a nuestros clientes'.

Si violas el acuerdo de confidencialidad, podrías enfrentarte a una demanda legal.

El protocolo de confidencialidad de la clínica es muy riguroso.

You will hear de confidencialidad in a variety of formal environments across the Spanish-speaking world. It is a staple of the 'lenguaje administrativo' (administrative language) and 'lenguaje jurídico' (legal language). If you work in an office in Madrid, Mexico City, or Buenos Aires, you will likely encounter this phrase within your first week. It is part of the standard onboarding process for most corporate jobs. HR managers will use it when explaining your contract terms, often emphasizing that internal company data is protected by a 'cláusula de confidencialidad'.

In the Media: News reports often use this phrase when discussing high-profile legal cases, government leaks, or celebrity scandals. Reporters might say, 'Las partes han firmado un pacto de confidencialidad', meaning that the parties in a lawsuit have agreed not to discuss the settlement publicly. It adds a layer of formal gravity to the reporting.

El famoso actor exigió un contrato de confidencialidad a todos sus empleados domésticos.

In Healthcare Settings: When visiting a hospital or clinic, the intake forms you sign will frequently mention the 'deber de confidencialidad' of the staff. In Spain, this is closely tied to the LOPD (Ley Orgánica de Protección de Datos). You might hear a nurse say, 'No se preocupe, aquí respetamos estrictamente las normas de confidencialidad'. This is intended to reassure patients that their private health information is secure.

La enfermera recordó al personal su obligación de confidencialidad antes de la cirugía.

In the tech world, 'política de confidencialidad' is the phrase you'll see at the bottom of every website. In Latin America, you might also hear 'aviso de privacidad', which is a related concept but often includes the broader 'de confidencialidad' protections. During government briefings, officials often use 'por razones de confidencialidad de Estado' to avoid answering questions about national security. This highlights the phrase's utility as a formal gatekeeper of information.

El gobierno invocó motivos de confidencialidad para no publicar el informe de inteligencia.

Educational Environments: Even in schools and universities, counselors and teachers are bound by 'normas de confidencialidad' regarding student records and personal issues. If a student talks to a counselor, the counselor might begin by saying, 'Todo lo que hablemos aquí está bajo un compromiso de confidencialidad'. This establishes a safe space for the student.

El orientador escolar explicó que existe un protocolo de confidencialidad para proteger a los alumnos.

¿Podría enviarme la política de confidencialidad de su empresa por correo electrónico?

Learning to use de confidencialidad correctly involves avoiding several common pitfalls that English speakers often fall into. The most frequent error is related to the word order and the use of the preposition 'de'. Because English uses 'confidentiality' as an adjective (e.g., 'confidentiality agreement'), learners often try to say 'confidencialidad acuerdo' or 'acuerdo confidencialidad'. Both are incorrect. You must use the 'noun + de + noun' structure.

Confusing it with 'Confidencial': Many learners use the adjective confidencial when they should use the phrase de confidencialidad. While 'información confidencial' is correct (confidential information), saying 'acuerdo confidencial' is less common than 'acuerdo de confidencialidad'. The former means the agreement itself is a secret, while the latter means the agreement is about keeping secrets. This is a subtle but important distinction in legal and business Spanish.

Incorrecto: Este es un confidencialidad contrato.
Correcto: Este es un contrato de confidencialidad.

Mistaking 'Confidencialidad' for 'Confianza': A very common false friend-related error is confusing confidencialidad with confianza (trust/confidence). If you say 'un acuerdo de confianza', you are talking about a 'gentleman's agreement' based on mutual trust, not a legal non-disclosure agreement. 'Confidencialidad' is about data and secrets; 'confianza' is about personal reliability.

Incorrecto: Tenemos un acuerdo de confianza para no decir nada.
Correcto: Tenemos un acuerdo de confidencialidad para no decir nada.

Another mistake is using the wrong verb. English speakers often say they 'broke' a confidentiality agreement. In Spanish, while you can use romper, it is much more professional and common to use vulnerar, violar, or incumplir. Saying 'rompió el acuerdo de confidencialidad' sounds slightly informal; 'incumplió el acuerdo de confidencialidad' sounds like you know your legal Spanish. Similarly, you don't 'sign' (signar) an agreement, you firmar it.

El empleado incumplió su compromiso de confidencialidad al hablar con la prensa.

Overusing the Phrase: Sometimes learners use 'de confidencialidad' when a simpler adjective would suffice. If you just want to say a letter is secret, say 'una carta confidencial'. Using 'una carta de confidencialidad' would imply the letter is a legal document about the concept of confidentiality itself. Reserve the 'de' phrase for agreements, rules, and duties.

Incorrecto: Recibí una noticia de confidencialidad.
Correcto: Recibí una noticia confidencial.

La empresa tiene políticas de confidencialidad muy claras para el teletrabajo.

While de confidencialidad is the standard legal and professional term, there are several other words and phrases in Spanish that cover similar ground depending on the context. Understanding these nuances will help you choose the most natural-sounding word for your situation. The most direct alternative is confidencial, but as we've discussed, it functions differently. Others include privado, secreto, reservado, and discreto.

Confidencialidad vs. Privacidad: 'Privacidad' (privacy) is often used interchangeably with 'confidencialidad' in casual speech, but they have different legal focuses. 'Confidencialidad' is about the protection of information shared in a relationship (legal, medical, business). 'Privacidad' is the broader right of an individual to be left alone and to control their personal data. You have a 'derecho a la privacidad' but you sign an 'acuerdo de confidencialidad'.

La nueva ley protege la privacidad de los datos, pero el contrato exige confidencialidad total.

Reservado: In government and military contexts, 'reservado' is often used instead of 'confidencial'. It implies that the information is restricted to a specific group. A 'documento reservado' is one that is not for public consumption. It feels slightly more bureaucratic than 'confidencial'.

Este informe es de carácter reservado y solo para uso interno.

For personal behavior, use discreción (discretion). If you want to ask someone to be careful with information without invoking legal terms, say 'Te pido discreción'. This is much more natural in social settings than saying 'Te pido confidencialidad'. Similarly, 'bajo cuerda' is a slang term for doing something 'under the table' or secretly, though it often implies something slightly illicit, unlike the professional 'de confidencialidad'.

Agradezco su discreción con respecto a mi situación personal.

Comparison Table

De confidencialidad: Legal/Professional obligation (Agreements, Clauses).
Confidencial: Nature of information (Documents, Letters).
Privado: Personal/Not public (Life, Conversations).
Secreto: High-level concealment (State secrets, trade secrets).
Discreto: Personal quality (Being careful with info).

Firmaron un pacto de silencio, que es una forma extrema de confidencialidad.

La cláusula de no divulgación es un sinónimo exacto de cláusula de confidencialidad.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The root 'fid' is the same as in 'faithful' (fiel) and the dog name 'Fido'. It literally means that you 'faithfully' keep the information.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /de kon.fi.ðen.sja.li.'ðað/

US /de kon.fi.ðen.sja.li.'ðað/

The primary stress is on the final syllable 'dad'.

Rhymes With

verdad ciudad libertad amistad oportunidad sociedad realidad universidad

Common Errors

Pronouncing the final 'd' like a hard English 'd'.
Stress on 'den' instead of 'dad'.
Skipping the 'i' in 'confidencialidad'.
Treating 'cia' as 'cha'.
Pronouncing 'de' as 'dee' instead of 'deh'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Easy to recognize because it looks like 'confidentiality'.

Writing 5/5

Requires remembering the 'de' and the long spelling.

Speaking 6/5

The length of the word 'confidencialidad' can be a tongue-twister.

Listening 4/5

The final 'd' is often swallowed by native speakers.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

secreto acuerdo contrato privado confianza

Learn Next

divulgación incumplimiento vulnerar vigencia cláusula

Advanced

sigilo profesional secreto de sumario protección de datos propiedad intelectual cláusula penal

Grammar to Know

Noun + de + Noun (Adjectival Phrases)

Contrato de confidencialidad (Agreement of confidentiality).

Placement of Adjectival Phrases

The phrase always follows the noun: 'Acuerdo de confidencialidad' NOT 'Confidencialidad acuerdo'.

Gender Agreement in Prepositional Phrases

'Confidencialidad' is feminine, but it doesn't change the gender of the modified noun: 'El (masc) contrato de confidencialidad'.

Using 'Por' for Reasons

Por motivos de confidencialidad (For/Due to confidentiality reasons).

Verbs of Obligation with Noun Phrases

Tener la obligación de mantener la confidencialidad.

Examples by Level

Es un papel de confidencialidad.

It is a confidentiality paper.

A1 learners use 'papel' as a simple substitute for 'documento'.

Tengo un secreto de confidencialidad.

I have a confidentiality secret.

Simple use of 'de' to link two concepts.

Firma el acuerdo de confidencialidad.

Sign the confidentiality agreement.

Imperative form 'firma' with the standard phrase.

Es por motivos de confidencialidad.

It is for confidentiality reasons.

Common fixed phrase for explaining why info is hidden.

No puedo hablar de confidencialidad.

I cannot talk about confidentiality.

Using 'hablar de' followed by the noun phrase.

La política de confidencialidad es buena.

The confidentiality policy is good.

Basic subject-verb-adjective structure.

Necesito un contrato de confidencialidad.

I need a confidentiality contract.

Using 'necesito' with the target phrase.

Es un tema de confidencialidad.

It is a confidentiality topic.

'Tema' is a common way to introduce a subject.

Leí el contrato de confidencialidad ayer.

I read the confidentiality contract yesterday.

Preterite tense 'leí' showing a completed action.

Ellos firmaron un acuerdo de confidencialidad.

They signed a confidentiality agreement.

Third person plural preterite 'firmaron'.

La clínica tiene reglas de confidencialidad.

The clinic has confidentiality rules.

Plural noun 'reglas' modified by the phrase.

No puedo decir nada por la confidencialidad.

I can't say anything because of the confidentiality.

Using 'por' to show cause.

¿Tienes un acuerdo de confidencialidad?

Do you have a confidentiality agreement?

Simple question structure with 'tener'.

Es una cláusula de confidencialidad importante.

It is an important confidentiality clause.

Adjective 'importante' following the full phrase.

Debemos respetar la confidencialidad del cliente.

We must respect the client's confidentiality.

'Debemos' + infinitive for obligation.

La empresa envió la política de confidencialidad.

The company sent the confidentiality policy.

Past tense 'envió' with the definite article.

Si trabajas aquí, debes firmar un compromiso de confidencialidad.

If you work here, you must sign a confidentiality commitment.

Conditional 'si' clause with 'deber' + infinitive.

Por motivos de confidencialidad, no revelaremos los nombres.

For confidentiality reasons, we will not reveal the names.

Future tense 'revelaremos' expressing intention.

La política de confidencialidad protege tus datos personales.

The confidentiality policy protects your personal data.

Present tense showing a general truth.

Hubo una violación del acuerdo de confidencialidad.

There was a violation of the confidentiality agreement.

'Hubo' (there was) used for an event.

El médico tiene un estricto deber de confidencialidad.

The doctor has a strict duty of confidentiality.

Adjective 'estricto' placed before the noun 'deber'.

Este contrato incluye una cláusula de confidencialidad estándar.

This contract includes a standard confidentiality clause.

Verb 'incluye' describing document contents.

Garantizamos la confidencialidad de todas las llamadas.

We guarantee the confidentiality of all calls.

Direct object 'la confidencialidad' followed by 'de'.

Es necesario mantener la confidencialidad en este proyecto.

It is necessary to maintain confidentiality in this project.

'Es necesario' + infinitive for general necessity.

El incumplimiento del acuerdo de confidencialidad conlleva multas.

Failure to comply with the confidentiality agreement carries fines.

Abstract noun 'incumplimiento' used as a subject.

Estamos sujetos a un régimen de confidencialidad muy riguroso.

We are subject to a very rigorous confidentiality regime.

'Sujeto a' followed by a complex noun phrase.

La empresa reforzó su política de confidencialidad tras la filtración.

The company reinforced its confidentiality policy after the leak.

Preterite 'reforzó' and 'tras' (after).

Debes actuar con total confidencialidad durante la auditoría.

You must act with total confidentiality during the audit.

Prepositional phrase 'con total confidencialidad'.

El acuerdo de confidencialidad expirará en tres años.

The confidentiality agreement will expire in three years.

Future tense 'expirará' for legal duration.

Se ha vulnerado el compromiso de confidencialidad profesional.

The professional confidentiality commitment has been breached.

Passive 'se ha vulnerado' for formal reporting.

Solicitamos que firmen este pacto de confidencialidad mutua.

We request that you sign this mutual confidentiality pact.

Subjunctive 'firmen' after a verb of request.

La confidencialidad es un requisito indispensable para el puesto.

Confidentiality is an indispensable requirement for the position.

Defining a requirement with 'es un... para'.

La cláusula de confidencialidad se extiende a todas las filiales.

The confidentiality clause extends to all subsidiaries.

Reflexive 'se extiende' for scope of application.

Existe un conflicto entre la transparencia y la confidencialidad.

A conflict exists between transparency and confidentiality.

Abstract debate using 'existe un conflicto entre'.

El abogado invocó el secreto profesional y la confidencialidad.

The lawyer invoked professional secrecy and confidentiality.

Using 'invocar' in a legal context.

Cualquier divulgación violará los términos de confidencialidad.

Any disclosure will violate the confidentiality terms.

'Cualquier' (any) with the future tense.

Se requiere la máxima confidencialidad en la gestión de activos.

Maximum confidentiality is required in asset management.

Impersonal 'se requiere' for formal standards.

El protocolo de confidencialidad fue revisado por el departamento legal.

The confidentiality protocol was reviewed by the legal department.

Passive voice 'fue revisado' with 'por' for the agent.

No podemos ignorar la normativa de confidencialidad vigente.

We cannot ignore the current confidentiality regulations.

'Vigente' (current/in force) modifying 'normativa'.

La confidencialidad de los datos es prioritaria para la empresa.

Data confidentiality is a priority for the company.

Adjective 'prioritaria' matching feminine 'confidencialidad'.

La salvaguarda de la confidencialidad es inherente a la función pública.

Safeguarding confidentiality is inherent to public service.

Sophisticated vocabulary like 'salvaguarda' and 'inherente'.

Se ha interpuesto una demanda por quebrantamiento de confidencialidad.

A lawsuit has been filed for breach of confidentiality.

'Interponer una demanda' and 'quebrantamiento' (breach).

El contrato estipula una obligación de confidencialidad perpetua.

The contract stipulates a perpetual confidentiality obligation.

Legal verb 'estipular' and adjective 'perpetua'.

La confidencialidad no puede ser óbice para la acción de la justicia.

Confidentiality cannot be an obstacle to the course of justice.

High-level term 'óbice' (obstacle).

Los acuerdos de confidencialidad deben redactarse con suma cautela.

Confidentiality agreements must be drafted with extreme caution.

'Redactarse' (to be drafted) and 'suma cautela' (extreme caution).

Se debate la prevalencia del interés público sobre la confidencialidad.

The prevalence of public interest over confidentiality is being debated.

Discussing legal hierarchy of rights.

La confidencialidad es el pilar sobre el que se asienta la banca privada.

Confidentiality is the pillar upon which private banking rests.

Metaphorical language with 'se asienta' (rests/is based).

El sigilo y la confidencialidad son imperativos en esta misión.

Secrecy and confidentiality are imperatives in this mission.

Using 'sigilo' as a formal synonym and 'imperativos' as a noun.

Synonyms

confidencial de no divulgación secreto reservado privado discreto de sigilo restringido

Antonyms

público de libre acceso divulgado transparente

Common Collocations

acuerdo de confidencialidad

cláusula de confidencialidad

política de confidencialidad

deber de confidencialidad

motivos de confidencialidad

compromiso de confidencialidad

protocolo de confidencialidad

garantía de confidencialidad

acuerdo mutuo de confidencialidad

normas de confidencialidad

Common Phrases

bajo acuerdo de confidencialidad

— Doing something while bound by a non-disclosure agreement.

Hablamos bajo acuerdo de confidencialidad.

por razones de confidencialidad

— Explaining that you can't share info due to secrecy rules.

Por razones de confidencialidad, no daré detalles.

estricta confidencialidad

— Emphasizing that the secrecy is very important and absolute.

Mantenemos estricta confidencialidad.

violar la confidencialidad

— To break the rules of a secrecy agreement.

Él violó la confidencialidad de la empresa.

respetar la confidencialidad

— To follow the rules of a secrecy agreement.

Debes respetar la confidencialidad del proceso.

contrato de confidencialidad

— A physical document signed to ensure secrecy.

Aquí tienes el contrato de confidencialidad.

pacto de confidencialidad

— A formal agreement (often between two people) to stay quiet.

Hicieron un pacto de confidencialidad.

niveles de confidencialidad

— Different grades of secrecy (e.g., low, medium, high).

Hay varios niveles de confidencialidad.

obligación de confidencialidad

— The legal or ethical requirement to keep secrets.

Es una obligación de confidencialidad legal.

acuerdo de confidencialidad recíproco

— A two-way agreement where both parties keep secrets.

Es un acuerdo de confidencialidad recíproco.

Often Confused With

de confidencialidad vs confianza

Confianza means 'trust' or 'confidence' (feelings), while confidencialidad means 'secrecy' (data/legal).

de confidencialidad vs confidencial

Confidencial is the adjective (confidential), while 'de confidencialidad' is the phrase used for agreements and rules.

de confidencialidad vs privacidad

Privacidad is the general right to privacy, whereas confidencialidad is the specific duty to keep secrets.

Idioms & Expressions

"guardar el secreto"

— To keep a secret; the informal equivalent of maintaining confidentiality.

Prometo guardar el secreto.

neutral

"ser una tumba"

— Literally 'to be a tomb'; to be extremely silent and keep a secret perfectly.

No te preocupes, soy una tumba.

informal

"bajo siete llaves"

— Under seven keys; something kept very, very safe and secret.

Guardamos el acuerdo bajo siete llaves.

informal/idiomatic

"en confianza"

— In confidence; sharing something privately based on trust.

Te lo digo en confianza.

informal

"trapo sucio"

— Dirty laundry; refers to secrets that are shameful if revealed.

No laves los trapos sucios en público.

informal

"decir algo al oído"

— To whisper something; a physical act of maintaining confidentiality.

Me lo dijo al oído.

neutral

"no soltar prenda"

— To not give anything away; to be very careful not to reveal info.

Le pregunté, pero no soltó prenda.

informal

"punto en boca"

— Zipper on the mouth; a command to stay quiet.

¡Punto en boca!

informal

"secreto a voces"

— An open secret; something everyone knows despite 'confidentiality'.

Su renuncia es un secreto a voces.

neutral

"entre nos"

— Just between us; used to share something confidentially.

Esto queda entre nos.

informal

Easily Confused

de confidencialidad vs Confidencia

Looks like confidentiality.

Confidencia is a specific secret shared with someone; confidencialidad is the state or rule of secrecy.

Me hizo una confidencia sobre su familia.

de confidencialidad vs Confidente

Looks like confident.

A confidente is a person you tell secrets to (a confidant), not a feeling of being sure.

Ella es mi mejor amiga y mi confidente.

de confidencialidad vs Confiado

Related root.

Confiado means 'trusting' or 'naive', depending on context.

No seas tan confiado con los extraños.

de confidencialidad vs Fiducia

Legal term with same root.

Fiducia refers to a financial trust or fiduciary duty, not general secrecy.

Es un contrato de fiducia mercantil.

de confidencialidad vs Sigilo

Synonym.

Sigilo is a higher, often religious or very formal level of secrecy.

El sigilo confesional es absoluto.

Sentence Patterns

Es un/una [Noun] de confidencialidad.

Es un papel de confidencialidad.

Tengo que firmar un [Noun] de confidencialidad.

Tengo que firmar un acuerdo de confidencialidad.

No puedo [Verb] por motivos de confidencialidad.

No puedo hablar por motivos de confidencialidad.

La política de confidencialidad dice que...

La política de confidencialidad dice que no podemos usar el móvil.

El incumplimiento de la confidencialidad...

El incumplimiento de la confidencialidad resultará en despido.

Bajo estricto acuerdo de confidencialidad...

Bajo estricto acuerdo de confidencialidad, te mostraré el prototipo.

Se garantiza la confidencialidad de...

Se garantiza la confidencialidad de todos los datos personales.

Invocando el deber de confidencialidad...

Invocando el deber de confidencialidad, el testigo se negó a declarar.

Word Family

Nouns

confidencialidad

confidencia

confidente

Verbs

confiar

Adjectives

confidencial

confiado

privacidad

secreto

reserva

sigilo

discreción

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely high in professional, medical, and legal domains.

Common Mistakes

Confidencialidad acuerdo → Acuerdo de confidencialidad
Spanish requires the 'de' and the noun order is reversed compared to English.
Es un acuerdo de confianza → Es un acuerdo de confidencialidad
'Confianza' means personal trust, not legal secrecy.
Romper el acuerdo → Incumplir el acuerdo
'Incumplir' is more professional for legal contexts than 'romper'.
La confidencialidad de datos → La confidencialidad de los datos
Spanish usually requires the definite article 'los' when referring to data in general.
Confidencialmente acuerdo → Acuerdo de confidencialidad
Don't use the adverb 'confidencialmente' as an adjective.

Tips

The 'De' Rule

Never forget the 'de'. In Spanish, you cannot stack nouns like in English. It's always 'Noun + de + Confidencialidad'.

NDA Equivalent

If you are in a business meeting, use 'Acuerdo de confidencialidad' to translate 'NDA' perfectly.

Soft 'D'

Soften the 'd' sounds. Spanish 'd' is much softer than English 'd', especially between vowels and at the end of words.

Declining Requests

Use 'Por motivos de confidencialidad' to say 'no' to a request for info without sounding rude.

-dad Suffix

Remember that words ending in -dad are always feminine. This helps you choose the right articles and adjectives.

Medical Privacy

In a hospital, look for 'deber de confidencialidad' to know your records are safe.

Word Linking

Listen for how 'de' blends into 'confidencialidad'. It often sounds like one long word.

Discreción

For social situations, 'discreción' is often better than 'confidencialidad', which sounds too legal.

Incumplimiento

Use 'incumplimiento' instead of 'romper' when talking about breaking a confidentiality agreement in a formal way.

Root Recognition

Recognize the 'confid-' root to quickly associate it with 'confidence' and 'confidential'.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'de' as 'of' and 'confidencialidad' as 'confidentiality'. It's the 'Agreement OF Confidentiality'.

Visual Association

Imagine a giant padlock (confidencialidad) sitting on top of a contract (acuerdo).

Word Web

Acuerdo Contrato Cláusula Secreto Privacidad Datos Firma Derecho

Challenge

Try to write three sentences using 'de confidencialidad' with three different nouns: acuerdo, política, and motivos.

Word Origin

From the Spanish noun 'confidencialidad', which comes from the adjective 'confidencial'. This stems from the Latin 'confidentialis', from 'confidentia' (confidence/trust).

Original meaning: The act of placing trust in someone regarding a secret.

Romance (Latin root: confidere - to trust completely).

Cultural Context

Be careful when discussing medical or legal 'confidencialidad' as it is a sensitive topic involving personal rights.

The phrase is the direct equivalent of 'confidentiality' used as an adjective (e.g., 'confidentiality clause').

The movie 'El Informe Pelícano' (The Pelican Brief) deals with breaches of confidentiality. Legal dramas like 'Suits' (La ley de los audaces) frequently mention these agreements. The Panama Papers scandal involved massive breaches of 'confidencialidad bancaria'.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Job Interview / Employment

¿Debo firmar un acuerdo de confidencialidad?
Entiendo mi deber de confidencialidad.
La cláusula de confidencialidad es estándar.
Respeto la confidencialidad de mi anterior empresa.

Medical Visit

¿Cuál es su política de confidencialidad?
Sus datos están bajo confidencialidad médica.
Garantizamos total confidencialidad.
El deber de confidencialidad es obligatorio.

Legal / Business Meeting

Hablamos bajo estricta confidencialidad.
Este es un borrador del contrato de confidencialidad.
Cualquier filtración viola la confidencialidad.
Necesitamos un pacto de confidencialidad mutua.

Website / Tech

Lea nuestra política de confidencialidad.
Acepto los términos de confidencialidad.
Confidencialidad de los datos del usuario.
Actualizamos nuestras normas de confidencialidad.

General Refusal to Share Info

No puedo responder por motivos de confidencialidad.
Es un asunto de confidencialidad.
Lo siento, hay un acuerdo de confidencialidad.
Por razones de confidencialidad, no daré nombres.

Conversation Starters

"¿Has tenido que firmar alguna vez un acuerdo de confidencialidad muy extraño?"

"¿Qué opinas sobre la política de confidencialidad de las redes sociales actuales?"

"En tu trabajo, ¿qué tan estricto es el deber de confidencialidad con los clientes?"

"¿Crees que los médicos siempre respetan la confidencialidad de sus pacientes?"

"¿Qué pasaría si alguien rompiera un acuerdo de confidencialidad en tu empresa?"

Journal Prompts

Describe una situación en la que tuviste que mantener la confidencialidad de un amigo o colega.

Escribe sobre la importancia de las cláusulas de confidencialidad en el mundo de la tecnología.

¿Cómo te sientes cuando firmas un contrato de confidencialidad? ¿Te da seguridad o desconfianza?

Reflexiona sobre el equilibrio entre la libertad de prensa y la confidencialidad del estado.

Imagina que eres un abogado y debes explicar a un cliente por qué necesita un acuerdo de confidencialidad.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

The most common equivalent is 'Non-Disclosure Agreement' or 'NDA'. In general English, it can also be called a 'Confidentiality Agreement'.

You can, but it means something slightly different. 'Acuerdo confidencial' means the agreement itself is secret. 'Acuerdo de confidencialidad' means the agreement is about keeping other things secret.

No, it is also used in medicine, business, and even in schools to describe the protection of student or patient information.

The correct phrase is 'cláusula de confidencialidad'. Remember to always use 'de' between the two nouns.

It is 'la confidencialidad' because nouns ending in '-dad' are feminine in Spanish.

Confidencialidad is about protecting info shared in a relationship (like doctor-patient). Privacidad is the general right to keep your life out of the public eye.

It is a very soft sound, similar to the 'th' in 'thin' or 'this', but barely audible. Don't make it a hard 'D' like in 'dog'.

No, to describe a person who keeps secrets, use the adjective 'discreto' or say 'es una persona de confianza'.

The most common verb is 'firmar' (to sign). You can also use 'violar' (to break) or 'respetar' (to respect).

Yes, it is a very professional and polite way to tell someone you cannot share information.