Meaning and Usage
The word 机密 (jī mì) refers to information or matters that are secret or confidential, often related to business, government, or security contexts. It is a formal term used to emphasize the importance of keeping something hidden from unauthorized access.
Common Contexts
You will often see 机密 used with documents (文件), projects (项目), or information (信息) that require protection. It implies a high level of secrecy and is usually associated with official or sensitive content.
Collocations and Patterns
- 机密文件 (confidential document): official papers that must not be disclosed.
- 机密项目 (confidential project): secret projects often related to business or research.
- 机密信息 (confidential information): sensitive data requiring protection.
Nuances
Using 机密 signals a serious obligation to keep information private. It is stronger than just saying 秘密 (secret) and is often used in formal or professional settings. Avoid confusing it with casual secrets shared among friends.
Common Confusion
Do not confuse 机密 with 秘密. While both mean secret, 机密 is more formal and often used for official or classified information, whereas 秘密 can be used more broadly for personal or informal secrets.