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B1 adverb #4,000 mais comum 9 min de leitura

vertraulich

Top 4,000

Pratique Exemplos Notas e dicas vertraulich em 30 segundos

Explicação vertraulich in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'vertraulich' is a bit advanced, but you might see it on signs or in simple emails. Think of it as 'shh, it's a secret'. You don't need to use it in complex sentences yet, but you should recognize that it relates to 'Vertrauen' (trust). If someone says 'Das ist vertraulich', they want you to keep the information to yourself. It is like telling a friend a secret in the playground. It's about being private and careful with words. You might hear it in a doctor's office or see it on a letter. Just remember: vertraulich = confidential/private.

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By A2, you can start using 'vertraulich' in simple sentences with verbs like 'sagen' (to say) or 'schreiben' (to write). For example: 'Ich sage es dir vertraulich.' You understand that it is more formal than just saying 'privat'. You also begin to see it in workplace contexts, such as 'Diese E-Mail ist vertraulich.' At this level, you should be able to distinguish between 'geheim' (secret) and 'vertraulich' (confidential) in basic scenarios. You are learning that German has specific words for different types of privacy, and 'vertraulich' is one of the most important ones for daily life and work.

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At the B1 level, you are expected to use 'vertraulich' correctly as an adverb to describe how information is handled. You should use collocations like 'vertraulich behandeln' (to treat confidentially) or 'vertraulich besprechen' (to discuss confidentially). You understand the nuance that 'vertraulich' implies a bond of trust between people. You can use it in professional emails to ensure your privacy. You are also aware of the word family, including 'das Vertrauen' (trust) and 'vertrauen' (to trust). This is the level where you start to feel the 'warmth' of the word compared to the more clinical 'confidential'.

At B2, you use 'vertraulich' with nuance and precision. You can use it to describe an intimate atmosphere in literature or a strict legal requirement in a contract. You are comfortable with passive constructions like 'Die Daten werden vertraulich verarbeitet.' You also know related terms like 'verschwiegen' (discreet/tight-lipped) and can explain the difference between them. You understand that 'vertraulich' can modify not just what is said, but how people interact—their tone, their body language, and their professional ethics. You are starting to use it to express complex social boundaries.

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At the C1 level, you have a masterly command of 'vertraulich'. You use it in high-level professional discussions, legal contexts, and literary analysis. You understand its role in 'Quellenschutz' (protection of sources) in journalism and 'Bankgeheimnis' (banking secrecy). You can use it to describe the subtle 'vertrauliche Ton' (confidential tone) an author uses to build a relationship with the reader. You are aware of its synonyms and can choose the exact right word for the level of formality and the specific type of secrecy required. You can also use it idiomatically and in complex grammatical structures without hesitation.

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At C2, you use 'vertraulich' as a native speaker would, with all its cultural and historical baggage. You understand the profound importance of 'Vertraulichkeit' in German society and how it relates to concepts like 'Datenschutz'. You can navigate the most sensitive diplomatic or legal documents where 'vertraulich' might have specific legal definitions. You can use the word to convey irony, sarcasm, or deep emotional weight in creative writing. Your use of the adverbial form is perfectly integrated into complex, multi-clause sentences, and you can distinguish it from every possible synonym with absolute clarity.

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Pratique Exemplos Notas e dicas

vertraulich em 30 segundos

Vertraulich means confidential or intimate, focusing on trust.
Commonly used in professional settings to protect sensitive data.
Describes an intimate, private manner of speaking in personal contexts.
Important for B1 learners to master in professional and legal situations.

The German word vertraulich is a multifaceted term that primarily functions as an adverb or adjective, though in this context, we focus on its adverbial usage. At its core, it describes actions performed in a manner that implies trust, secrecy, or intimacy. When you do something vertraulich, you are operating under the assumption that the information or the interaction is not for public consumption. This word is a pillar of both professional legal environments and deeply personal, emotional exchanges.

Professional Context: In the workplace or legal sphere, 'vertraulich' is the standard term for 'confidential'. It appears on documents, in email disclaimers, and during meetings where sensitive data is discussed. If a manager speaks to an employee 'vertraulich', it implies a formal boundary of privacy that must not be breached.
Personal Context: In social settings, the word shifts slightly toward 'intimate' or 'familiar'. It describes a tone of voice or a way of sitting together that suggests a close bond. Two friends whispering in a corner are acting 'vertraulich'. It conveys a sense of shared secrets and mutual reliance.

Wir müssen dieses Problem unter uns vertraulich besprechen, bevor wir an die Öffentlichkeit gehen.

Understanding the nuance of 'vertraulich' requires recognizing the root 'trauen' (to trust). Unlike the English 'confidential', which can sometimes feel cold and bureaucratic, the German 'vertraulich' carries the warmth of the word 'Vertrauen' (trust). It suggests that the secrecy is a result of a relationship, not just a rule. For English speakers, it is helpful to think of it as 'in confidence'.

Der Arzt behandelte die Informationen der Patientin streng vertraulich.

Furthermore, the adverbial use often pairs with verbs of communication: mitteilen (to inform), behandeln (to treat/handle), and besprechen (to discuss). It dictates the atmosphere of the interaction. It is not just about the data being secret; it is about the act of sharing being protected by a bond of trust.

Sie flüsterten vertraulich miteinander am Ende des Tisches.

Etymological Connection: The prefix 'ver-' often indicates a completion or a strengthening of the root. 'Traulich' alone means cozy or intimate, but 'vertraulich' adds the layer of 'entrusted' information. This distinction is vital for B1 learners to master.

Alle eingereichten Unterlagen werden vertraulich behandelt.

Darf ich Ihnen das vertraulich sagen?

Using vertraulich correctly as an adverb requires placing it in a position that modifies the verb or the entire clause, usually after the primary verb or the direct object. It functions to define the 'how' of an action—specifically, the level of privacy or trust involved. Unlike English, where 'confidential' is often an adjective ('a confidential report'), German frequently uses 'vertraulich' to describe the *handling* of that report.

Verb Modification: When modifying a verb like 'behandeln' (to treat), the word 'vertraulich' usually comes before the final verb in a subordinate clause or after the direct object in a main clause. Example: 'Bitte behandeln Sie diese E-Mail vertraulich.' (Please treat this email confidentially.)

Er hat mir die Neuigkeiten vertraulich mitgeteilt.

In complex sentences involving modal verbs, 'vertraulich' stays close to the infinitive at the end. This is a common structure in German business correspondence. For instance: 'Diese Daten müssen unbedingt vertraulich bleiben.' (This data must absolutely remain confidential.) Notice how 'vertraulich' provides the essential quality of the 'remaining' (bleiben).

Wir sollten uns morgen vertraulich zusammensetzen.

Another important usage is in the passive voice, which is ubiquitous in German administration. 'Die Akten wurden vertraulich vernichtet' (The files were destroyed confidentially/privately). Here, the adverb describes the process of destruction, ensuring that no unauthorized eyes saw the contents.

Kannst du mir vertraulich sagen, was passiert ist?

Comparisons: While 'geheim' means secret, 'vertraulich' is about the trust between parties. You wouldn't usually say 'Wir sprachen geheim' unless you are in a spy movie. In daily life, 'vertraulich' is the more natural, sophisticated choice for private conversations.

Die beiden Kollegen unterhielten sich sehr vertraulich in der Kaffeepause.

Alle Informationen werden vom System vertraulich gespeichert.

In terms of register, 'vertraulich' is perfectly safe for all levels of formality. It is polite enough for a CEO but common enough for a heart-to-heart with a sibling. Its versatility is its greatest strength for learners at the B1 level.

In the German-speaking world, vertraulich is not just a vocabulary word; it is a legal and social expectation. Germany, Austria, and Switzerland have some of the strictest privacy laws in the world (like the GDPR, or DSGVO in German). Consequently, you will hear this word in almost every professional interaction involving personal data.

The Doctor's Office: When you visit a 'Hausarzt' (GP), they are bound by 'ärztliche Schweigepflicht' (medical confidentiality). They will often reassure you by saying, 'Alles, was wir hier besprechen, wird vertraulich behandelt.' This is a standard phrase meant to build immediate trust.
Human Resources (Personalabteilung): If you have a conflict at work and go to HR, they will emphasize that the 'Gespräch vertraulich bleibt'. This means they won't tell your boss or colleagues without your permission. It is the cornerstone of corporate mediation.

In der Politik werden viele Verhandlungen vertraulich geführt.

In literature and film, 'vertraulich' often describes a scene where two characters share a moment of vulnerability. If a narrator says, 'Sie beugte sich vertraulich zu ihm,' it implies a physical closeness—perhaps leaning in to whisper—that suggests a romantic or deep friendship connection. It sets a 'traulich' (cozy/intimate) mood.

Der Journalist versprach, seine Quelle vertraulich zu behandeln.

You will also encounter this word in online banking and digital services. Terms and conditions (AGB) frequently mention how your data is 'vertraulich verschlüsselt' (confidentially encrypted). In the age of cyber-security, the adverb 'vertraulich' provides a sense of safety to the consumer.

Können wir das bitte vertraulich klären?

Media and Journalism: Journalists often use 'vertrauliche Quellen' (confidential sources). When they report on a leak, they might say, 'Aus vertraulich behandelten Dokumenten geht hervor...' (From documents treated confidentially, it appears...).

Das Team arbeitete vertraulich an dem neuen Projekt.

One of the most frequent hurdles for English speakers learning vertraulich is the confusion with related-looking words like 'vertraut' or 'zuversichtlich'. While they all share a linguistic root in 'trust', their applications are distinct and mixing them up can lead to significant misunderstandings.

Mistake 1: Vertraulich vs. Vertraut: 'Vertraut' means 'familiar' or 'well-known'. If you say 'Wir sind vertraulich', you are saying you are sharing secrets or acting in a confidential manner. If you say 'Wir sind vertraut', you mean you know each other very well. Use 'vertraulich' for the *action* of keeping secrets, and 'vertraut' for the *state* of knowing someone.

Falsch: Ich bin mit diesem System vertraulich.
Richtig: Ich bin mit diesem System vertraut.

Another error is the 'False Friend' confusion with the English word 'confident'. English speakers often want to use 'vertraulich' to mean 'self-assured'. However, the German word for 'confident' (in oneself) is selbstbewusst or zuversichtlich (optimistic). Saying 'Er spricht vertraulich' means he is whispering secrets, not that he is speaking with confidence in his abilities.

Falsch: Er ist sehr vertraulich, dass er gewinnt.
Richtig: Er ist sehr zuversichtlich, dass er gewinnt.

Finally, learners sometimes use 'geheim' (secret) where 'vertraulich' is more appropriate. 'Geheim' often implies something hidden from everyone, perhaps even something illicit. 'Vertraulich' is the professional, respectful way to say 'private'. If you tell a colleague a 'secret' about a project, use 'vertraulich' to sound professional; using 'geheim' might make it sound like you're plotting a conspiracy.

Bitte halten Sie diese Information vertraulich (better than 'geheim' in office settings).

Pronunciation Note: Be careful not to swallow the '-lich' ending. It should be a soft 'ch' (ich-Laut), not a hard 'k'. A hard 'k' can make the word sound like 'vertraulig', which isn't a word and might confuse listeners.

While vertraulich is a high-frequency word, having a variety of synonyms and alternatives in your vocabulary will help you sound more natural and precise in different contexts. Depending on whether you are in a boardroom or a living room, you might choose a different term.

Diskret (Discreet): This is very close to 'vertraulich' but emphasizes the behavior of the person. If someone is 'diskret', they know how to stay in the background and not cause a scene. 'Er hat mir diskret einen Hinweis gegeben' (He gave me a hint discreetly).
Unter vier Augen (Privately / One-on-one): This is a beautiful German idiom meaning 'between four eyes'. It is the perfect alternative when you want to ask for a confidential meeting. 'Können wir das unter vier Augen besprechen?' is much more common in spoken German than 'Können wir das vertraulich besprechen?'.

Wir haben die Angelegenheit diskret geregelt.

For more formal or legal situations, you might hear verschwiegen. This describes a person who is capable of keeping secrets. 'Er ist ein sehr verschwiegener Mensch' (He is a very tight-lipped/discreet person). While 'vertraulich' describes the *information* or the *manner*, 'verschwiegen' describes the *character trait*.

Lass uns das im Vertrauen besprechen.

In contrast, privat is much broader. You might have a 'privates Gespräch', which is simply personal, but not necessarily 'vertraulich' (confidential). 'Vertraulich' always carries that extra weight of 'do not share this'.

Geheim (Secret): Use this for things that are hidden, like a 'Geheimrezept' (secret recipe) or a 'Geheimagent' (secret agent). It lacks the emotional component of trust that 'vertraulich' possesses.

Sie tauschten intime Details aus (more personal than vertraulich).

How Formal Is It?

Curiosidade

The root 'trauen' is related to the English word 'true', showing the deep connection between truth and trust.

Guia de pronúncia

UK /fɛɐ̯ˈtʁaʊ̯lɪç/

US /fɛrˈtraʊlɪk/

The stress is on the second syllable: ver-TRAU-lich.

Rima com

erbaulich bedauerlich anschaulich graulich bläulich bräunlich fraulich traulich

Erros comuns

Pronouncing the 'v' like an English 'v' (it should be an 'f').
Pronouncing the 'ch' like a 'k'.
Adding an extra syllable.
Swallowing the 'r' too much.
Stressing the first syllable 'ver'.

Nível de dificuldade

Leitura 3/5

Easy to recognize in texts once the root 'Vertrauen' is known.

Escrita 5/5

Requires correct adverbial placement and awareness of collocations like 'behandeln'.

Expressão oral 6/5

The 'v' as 'f' and the 'ch' sound can be tricky for beginners.

Audição 4/5

Clear pronunciation usually makes it easy to catch in speech.

O que aprender depois

Pré-requisitos

vertrauen das Vertrauen geheim privat reden

Aprenda a seguir

die Verschwiegenheit diskret das Dienstgeheimnis die Schweigepflicht anvertrauen

Avançado

die Integrität die Diskretion die Loyalität die Authentizität die Intimität

Gramática essencial

Adverbs of manner describe how an action is performed and do not take endings.

Er spricht vertraulich. (Not: vertrauliche)

In passive sentences, the adverb usually stays close to the participle.

Die Daten wurden vertraulich gespeichert.

Modal verbs push the main verb to the end, and the adverb often precedes it.

Wir müssen das vertraulich klären.

Separable verbs split, and the adverb usually goes before the prefix in main clauses.

Er teilt es mir vertraulich mit.

Adjectives derived from adverbs take endings when they precede a noun.

Ein vertrauliches (adj) Gespräch vs. Wir reden vertraulich (adv).

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Exemplos por nível

Das ist vertraulich.

That is confidential.

Simple predicate adjective/adverb use.

Bitte bleib vertraulich.

Please stay confidential (keep the secret).

Imperative mood.

Ist das vertraulich?

Is that confidential?

Simple question.

Ich sage es dir vertraulich.

I am telling you this confidentially.

Adverb modifying 'sagen'.

Ein vertraulicher Brief.

A confidential letter.

Adjective use (inflected).

Wir sprechen vertraulich.

We are speaking confidentially.

Present tense adverb.

Das ist nicht vertraulich.

That is not confidential.

Negation with 'nicht'.

Schreib mir vertraulich.

Write to me confidentially.

Imperative with adverb.

Kannst du das vertraulich behandeln?

Can you treat this confidentially?

Modal verb 'können' with infinitive.

Er hat mir vertraulich geantwortet.

He answered me confidentially.

Perfekt tense with adverb.

Wir müssen vertraulich reden.

We must talk confidentially.

Modal verb 'müssen'.

Sie gab mir die Information vertraulich.

She gave me the information confidentially.

Präteritum (simple past).

Warum ist das vertraulich?

Why is that confidential?

Question with 'warum'.

Ich möchte vertraulich mit dir sprechen.

I would like to speak with you confidentially.

Konjunktiv II 'möchte'.

Diese Dokumente sind sehr vertraulich.

These documents are very confidential.

Adverbial intensifier 'sehr'.

Halt das bitte vertraulich.

Keep that confidential, please.

Imperative of 'halten'.

Alle Daten werden bei uns vertraulich behandelt.

All data is treated confidentially by us.

Passive voice (Vorgangspassiv).

Er teilte mir die Nachricht ganz vertraulich mit.

He shared the news with me quite confidentially.

Separable verb 'mitteilen'.

Es ist wichtig, vertraulich mit Kunden zu kommunizieren.

It is important to communicate confidentially with customers.

Infinitiv mit 'zu'.

Wir haben uns vertraulich über die Pläne unterhalten.

We talked confidentially about the plans.

Reflexive verb 'sich unterhalten'.

Darf ich Ihnen das vertraulich sagen?

May I tell you this confidentially?

Polite question with 'darf'.

Die Information wurde mir vertraulich zugespielt.

The information was leaked to me confidentially.

Passive voice with 'zuspielen'.

Sie flüsterten vertraulich miteinander.

They whispered confidentially with each other.

Adverb describing manner of 'flüstern'.

Ich verspreche, die Sache vertraulich zu klären.

I promise to settle the matter confidentially.

Verb 'versprechen' with infinitive clause.

Die Verhandlungen wurden streng vertraulich geführt.

The negotiations were conducted strictly confidentially.

Adverb 'streng' modifying 'vertraulich'.

Es wurde vereinbart, die Details vertraulich zu behandeln.

It was agreed to treat the details confidentially.

Impersonal passive 'Es wurde vereinbart'.

Er neigte sich vertraulich zu seiner Nachbarin.

He leaned confidentially toward his neighbor.

Verb 'neigen' with directional preposition.

Die Ergebnisse der Studie sind vertraulich zu handhaben.

The results of the study are to be handled confidentially.

Gerundivum-like construction (sein + zu + Infinitiv).

Ich habe ihm das unter dem Siegel der Verschwiegenheit vertraulich erzählt.

I told him that confidentially under the seal of secrecy.

Complex idiomatic phrase combined with adverb.

Obwohl es vertraulich war, wussten bald alle Bescheid.

Although it was confidential, soon everyone knew.

Concessive clause with 'obwohl'.

Man muss lernen, vertraulich mit sensiblen Themen umzugehen.

One must learn to handle sensitive topics confidentially.

Verb 'umgehen mit' (to handle/deal with).

Die Akte wurde als vertraulich eingestuft.

The file was classified as confidential.

Verb 'einstufen als'.

Die diplomatischen Depeschen wurden verschlüsselt und vertraulich übermittelt.

The diplomatic dispatches were encrypted and transmitted confidentially.

Technical vocabulary combined with passive voice.

In seinem vertraulich gehaltenen Bericht kritisierte er die Regierung.

In his report, which was kept confidential, he criticized the government.

Participle construction used as an adjective phrase.

Sie tauschten Blicke aus, die eine vertrauliche Übereinkunft verrieten.

They exchanged glances that betrayed a confidential agreement.

Relative clause with 'verraten'.

Die Zeugenaussage wurde vertraulich zu Protokoll gegeben.

The witness statement was given confidentially for the record.

Legal idiom 'zu Protokoll geben'.

Ein vertraulich geführtes Gespräch kann oft mehr bewirken als eine offizielle Sitzung.

A conversation held confidentially can often achieve more than an official meeting.

Comparison with 'als'.

Trotz der vertraulich getroffenen Absprache hielt er sich nicht an die Regeln.

Despite the confidentially made agreement, he did not stick to the rules.

Preposition 'trotz' with genitive.

Die Quellen müssen unbedingt vertraulich bleiben, um sie nicht zu gefährden.

The sources must remain confidential at all costs so as not to endanger them.

Final clause with 'um... zu'.

Er sprach so vertraulich mit ihr, dass man eine Affäre vermuten konnte.

He spoke so confidentially with her that one could suspect an affair.

Consecutive clause with 'so... dass'.

Die Subtilität, mit der sie vertraulich agierten, war bemerkenswert.

The subtlety with which they acted confidentially was remarkable.

Complex relative clause.

Es obliegt der Geschäftsführung, die Bilanzen vorerst vertraulich zu behandeln.

It is incumbent upon the management to treat the balance sheets confidentially for now.

Formal verb 'obliegen'.

In der vertraulich anmutenden Atmosphäre des Salons wurden Weltreiche geteilt.

In the confidential-seeming atmosphere of the salon, empires were divided.

Adjectival participle 'anmutend'.

Die Vertraulichkeit der Beichte ist ein unantastbares Gut.

The confidentiality of the confession is an inviolable asset.

Noun form 'Vertraulichkeit' used in a philosophical sense.

Obschon die Akten vertraulich waren, wurden sie der Presse zugespielt.

Although the files were confidential, they were leaked to the press.

Elevated conjunction 'obschon'.

Das vertraulich geäußerte Wort hat in diesen Kreisen noch Gewicht.

The word expressed confidentially still carries weight in these circles.

Substantivized adjective phrase.

Man darf die vertraulich übermittelten Daten keinesfalls zweckentfremden.

One must under no circumstances misuse the confidentially transmitted data.

Complex verb 'zweckentfremden'.

Die vertraulich anberaumte Krisensitzung dauerte bis in die Morgenstunden.

The confidentially scheduled crisis meeting lasted until the early hours of the morning.

Participial adjective 'anberaumt'.

Colocações comuns

vertraulich behandeln

streng vertraulich

vertraulich mitteilen

vertraulich besprechen

vertraulich bleiben

vertraulich umgehen mit

vertraulich klingen

etwas vertraulich erfahren

vertraulich flüstern

vertraulich zusammenarbeiten

Frases Comuns

Vertraulich gesagt...

— Confidentially speaking... Used to introduce a secret.

Vertraulich gesagt, ich suche einen neuen Job.

Nur für den vertraulichen Gebrauch.

— Only for confidential use. Often seen on documents.

Dieser Bericht ist nur für den vertraulichen Gebrauch bestimmt.

Das bleibt unter uns.

— That stays between us. A common way to ensure confidentiality.

Was ich dir jetzt sage, bleibt unter uns.

Kein Wort zu niemandem.

— Not a word to anyone. A more dramatic way to demand secrecy.

Das ist vertraulich, also kein Wort zu niemandem!

Hinter verschlossenen Türen.

— Behind closed doors. Refers to confidential meetings.

Die Entscheidung wurde hinter verschlossenen Türen getroffen.

Ein vertrauliches Verhältnis.

— A confidential/intimate relationship.

Sie haben ein sehr vertrauliches Verhältnis zueinander.

Vertrauliche Informationen preisgeben.

— To reveal confidential information.

Er würde niemals vertrauliche Informationen preisgeben.

Die Vertraulichkeit wahren.

— To maintain confidentiality.

Wir müssen die Vertraulichkeit unserer Quellen wahren.

Ein vertraulicher Tonfall.

— A confidential tone of voice.

Sie sprach in einem vertraulichen Tonfall mit ihm.

Vertraulichkeit garantiert.

— Confidentiality guaranteed. Often in ads or legal services.

Bei uns ist absolute Vertraulichkeit garantiert.

Frequentemente confundido com

vertraulich vs vertraut

Means 'familiar' or 'well-known'. You are 'vertraut' with a topic, but you speak 'vertraulich' about a secret.

vertraulich vs zuversichtlich

Means 'confident' in the sense of optimistic. 'Vertraulich' does not mean self-confident.

vertraulich vs geheim

Means 'secret'. 'Vertraulich' is more about the relationship of trust than the secrecy itself.

Expressões idiomáticas

"Unter dem Siegel der Verschwiegenheit"

— Under the seal of secrecy. Very formal.

Ich sage es dir nur unter dem Siegel der Verschwiegenheit.

formal

"Jemandem etwas ins Ohr raunen"

— To murmur something into someone's ear. Suggests a confidential act.

Er raunte ihr vertraulich etwas ins Ohr.

literary

"Die Karten nicht auf den Tisch legen"

— Not to lay one's cards on the table. To keep things confidential/secret.

In den Verhandlungen legten sie ihre Karten nicht auf den Tisch.

figurative

"Dicht halten"

— To keep one's mouth shut/to keep a secret.

Du musst bei dieser Sache unbedingt dicht halten!

informal

"Aus dem Nähkästchen plaudern"

— To spill the beans / to talk about private/confidential things.

Sie begann, aus dem Nähkästchen zu plaudern.

informal

"Etwas für sich behalten"

— To keep something to oneself.

Bitte behalte diese Information für dich.

neutral

"Keine schlafenden Hunde wecken"

— Let sleeping dogs lie. To avoid making something public that could cause trouble.

Lass uns das vertraulich klären und keine schlafenden Hunde wecken.

idiomatic

"Etwas totschweigen"

— To keep absolutely silent about something (often something bad).

Der Skandal wurde monatelang totgeschwiegen.

neutral

"Jemanden ins Vertrauen ziehen"

— To take someone into one's confidence.

Er hat mich in seine Pläne ins Vertrauen gezogen.

neutral

"Den Mantel des Schweigens über etwas decken"

— To cover something with the cloak of silence.

Über diesen Vorfall wurde der Mantel des Schweigens gedeckt.

literary

Fácil de confundir

vertraulich vs vertraut

Similar root and sound.

'Vertraut' is an adjective describing familiarity (I know this), 'vertraulich' is an adverb/adjective describing confidentiality (this is private).

Ich bin mit der Stadt vertraut (familiar). Wir sprachen vertraulich (private).

vertraulich vs zuversichtlich

English 'confident' maps to both.

'Zuversichtlich' is about optimism. 'Vertraulich' is about secrecy.

Ich bin zuversichtlich (optimistic). Das ist vertraulich (confidential).

vertraulich vs geheim

Both deal with non-public info.

'Geheim' is often about hidden things (like a recipe). 'Vertraulich' is about professional or personal trust.

Ein geheimes Versteck (hidden). Ein vertrauliches Gespräch (trusted).

vertraulich vs privat

Overlapping meanings.

'Privat' is simply not public. 'Vertraulich' means it shouldn't be shared because of trust.

Mein privates Haus. Ein vertraulicher Bericht.

vertraulich vs diskret

Synonyms.

'Diskret' is about the person's behavior. 'Vertraulich' is about the information or the manner of sharing.

Er verhielt sich diskret. Sie sprachen vertraulich.

Padrões de frases

Ich sage dir das [Adverb].

Ich sage dir das vertraulich.

Bitte behandeln Sie [Nomen] [Adverb].

Bitte behandeln Sie diese E-Mail vertraulich.

Wir müssen [Adverb] darüber reden.

Wir müssen vertraulich darüber reden.

[Nomen] wird [Adverb] [Partizip].

Die Information wird vertraulich behandelt.

Es ist [Adjektiv], [Adverb] zu [Verb].

Es ist wichtig, vertraulich zu bleiben.

[Adverb] gesagt, [Satz].

Vertraulich gesagt, ich bin nicht zufrieden.

Er [Verb] sich [Adverb] zu [Person].

Er neigte sich vertraulich zu ihr.

Die [Nomen] der [Nomen] wurde [Adverb] [Verb].

Die Übermittlung der Daten wurde vertraulich durchgeführt.

Família de palavras

Substantivos

die Vertraulichkeit (confidentiality)

das Vertrauen (trust)

der Vertraute (confidant)

die Vertrauensperson (person of trust)

Verbos

vertrauen (to trust)

anvertrauen (to entrust)

zutrauen (to believe someone capable of something)

Adjetivos

vertraut (familiar)

vertrauensvoll (trusting)

vertrauenswürdig (trustworthy)

unvertraulich (not confidential)

Relacionado

Trauen

Mantrauen

Selbstvertrauen

Urvertrauen

Misstrauen

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Como usar

frequency

Common in business, law, medicine, and close friendships.

Erros comuns

Ich bin vertraulich, dass ich gewinne. → Ich bin zuversichtlich, dass ich gewinne.
'Vertraulich' is not 'confident' (optimistic). Use 'zuversichtlich' instead.
Ein vertraulich Gespräch. → Ein vertrauliches Gespräch.
As an adjective before a noun, it needs an ending.
Ich sage es dir geheim. → Ich sage es dir vertraulich.
In a personal context of trust, 'vertraulich' sounds more natural than 'geheim'.
Er ist ein vertraulicher Mensch. → Er ist ein verschwiegener Mensch.
To describe a person's character (keeping secrets), 'verschwiegen' is better.
Ich bin vertraulich mit Berlin. → Ich bin vertraut mit Berlin.
'Vertraut' means familiar. 'Vertraulich' means confidential.

Dicas

Adverbial Position

In German, adverbs like 'vertraulich' usually follow the verb they modify. In 'Wir reden vertraulich', it comes right after the verb.

The 'Trau' Root

Remember the root 'trau' (trust). It connects 'vertraulich' (confidential), 'Vertrauen' (trust), and 'vertrauen' (to trust).

Email Etiquette

If you want someone to keep an email private, start with 'Bitte behandeln Sie diese Nachricht vertraulich'.

The 'v' sound

The 'v' in German is often an 'f' sound. Practice saying 'f-er-trau-lich'.

Medical Privacy

In a German clinic, 'vertraulich' is the law. You can trust that your talk with the doctor is protected.

Four Eyes

If you want a confidential meeting, use the phrase 'unter vier Augen'. It's very common and sounds natural.

Adjective vs Adverb

Don't forget endings for adjectives: 'vertrauliche Daten', but 'Daten vertraulich behandeln' (adverb).

German Privacy

Privacy (Datenschutz) is very important in Germany. Using 'vertraulich' shows you respect these cultural boundaries.

Diskretion

Use 'diskret' if you want to emphasize being subtle and not being noticed.

False Friends

Avoid using 'vertraulich' to mean 'confident'. It never means 'I am sure of myself'.

Memorize

Mnemônico

Think of the 'v' as 'Very' and 'trau' as 'Trust'. So, 'vertraulich' is 'Very Trust-like'—something you only say to people you trust very much.

Associação visual

Imagine a red stamp on a manila envelope that says 'VERTRAULICH'. Or imagine two people sitting very close together, whispering.

Word Web

Vertrauen Geheimnis Privat Diskretion Sicherheit Freundschaft Recht Schutz

Desafio

Try to write three sentences today using 'vertraulich': one about work, one about a friend, and one about a doctor.

Origem da palavra

Derived from the Middle High German word 'vertrouwen', which comes from 'trauen' (to trust). The suffix '-lich' is used to form adjectives and adverbs of manner.

Significado original: Originally meant 'worthy of trust' or 'intimate'.

Germanic (Indo-European).

Contexto cultural

Always respect the 'vertraulich' label; in Germany, it can have legal consequences if ignored.

English speakers might find the German use of 'vertraulich' more frequent in daily life because of the strict legal requirements for privacy notices.

The concept of 'Ärztliche Schweigepflicht' (medical confidentiality). The 'Bankgeheimnis' (banking secrecy) in Switzerland. Stasi files were often marked 'Vertraulich' before the fall of the Wall.

Pratique na vida real

Contextos reais

Arztbesuch (Doctor's visit)

Alles ist vertraulich.
Patientendaten vertraulich behandeln.
Ärztliche Schweigepflicht.
Vertrauliches Gespräch.

Büro (Office)

Vertrauliche E-Mail.
Das bleibt im Team vertraulich.
Vertraulichkeitsvereinbarung unterschreiben.
Ein vertrauliches Feedback.

Recht (Law)

Streng vertrauliche Akten.
Vertraulichkeit wahren.
Vertrauliche Informationen schützen.
Bruch der Vertraulichkeit.

Freundschaft (Friendship)

Im Vertrauen sagen.
Sich vertraulich unterhalten.
Ein vertrauliches Geheimnis.
Jemandem etwas vertraulich anvertrauen.

Journalismus (Journalism)

Vertrauliche Quellen.
Informationen vertraulich erhalten.
Quellenschutz garantieren.
Vertrauliche Dokumente sichten.

Iniciadores de conversa

"Können wir über dieses Thema ganz vertraulich sprechen?"

"Wie wichtig ist es dir, dass deine Daten vertraulich behandelt werden?"

"Hast du schon einmal jemandem etwas vertraulich anvertraut, der es dann weitererzählt hat?"

"Welche Informationen würdest du niemals vertraulich am Telefon besprechen?"

"Findest du, dass Ärzte in Deutschland vertraulich genug mit Patienten umgehen?"

Temas para diário

Schreibe über eine Situation, in der du eine Information vertraulich behandeln musstest. War es schwierig?

Warum ist Vertraulichkeit am Arbeitsplatz so wichtig für das Betriebsklima?

Beschreibe den Unterschied zwischen einem 'geheimen' und einem 'vertraulichen' Gespräch aus deiner Sicht.

Denkst du, dass soziale Medien es schwieriger machen, Dinge vertraulich zu halten?

Was bedeutet 'Vertrauen' für dich in einer Freundschaft?

Perguntas frequentes

10 perguntas

No, you should use 'selbstbewusst' for self-confidence or 'zuversichtlich' for optimism. 'Vertraulich' only refers to confidentiality or intimacy.

'Vertraulich' is an adverb/adjective. 'Im Vertrauen' is a phrase. They mean nearly the same thing, but 'im Vertrauen' is more common in spoken German when sharing a secret: 'Ich sage es dir im Vertrauen'.

It is neutral. You can use it in a legal contract (formal) or when whispering to a friend (informal). It is a very versatile word.

It means 'strictly confidential'. You see this on government documents or very sensitive company information.

The most common term is 'Vertraulichkeitsvereinbarung' or 'Geheimhaltungsvereinbarung' (NDA).

Usually, you describe the *conversation* or the *manner* as vertraulich. To describe a person who can keep secrets, use 'verschwiegen'.

As an adverb, no. As an adjective before a noun, yes: 'ein vertrauliches Gespräch', 'eine vertrauliche Information'.

It is 'vertraulich'. There is no 'n' before the 'l'. Think of 'traulich'.

Use 'geheim' for things like 'secret agents', 'secret recipes', or 'secret rooms'. Use 'vertraulich' for professional data or private talks.

Very common. You will encounter it in almost every professional environment in Germany.

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