keep to oneself

Not share openly

To keep to oneself is to remain private and avoid social interaction: She tends to keep to herself at parties.

The phrase also means to not share information: He kept the news to himself until the deal closed.

To keep something to oneself is to refrain from telling others: Keep this to yourself—it's confidential.

solitary

reclusive

Seeking isolation from others

secluded · cloistered · isolated · antisocial · unsociable · loner · hermitage · seclusion · solitude · loneliness

shy

introverted

Turned toward inner life

  • shyReserved and retiring
  • timidLacking courage or confidence
  • bashfulUncomfortably self-conscious

diffident · demure · inhibited · retiring · meek · wallflower · shrinking

reserved

reticent

Disinclined to speak freely

aloof · distant · detached · standoffish · unapproachable · unforthcoming · cool · undemonstrative · restrained · tight-lipped

secretive

private

Restricted to certain parties

undisclosed · confidential · unobtrusive · cryptic · cagey · evasive · hush-hush · covert · hidden · closeted

Opposites
social sharing of information

keep to oneselfshare

Portion given out

confide · disclose · open up · tell · divulge

social engagement and interaction

keep to oneselfsocialize

Interact with others

mingle · mix · network · circulate · fraternize

emotional openness

keep to oneselfwear one's heart on one's sleeve

Express feelings openly, visibly

express oneself · emote · pour one's heart out · let it all out · speak one's mind

Family

keep, keeps, kept, keeping, keeper, keepers, upkeep, keepable, self

Familiarity
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Profile
Known to kids · Used worldwide · Timeless · Abstract · Everyday, not technical · Rated G