A phrase from historical newspaper personal ads, explained with real examples from the archive.
A promise that replies would be kept private: address, in confidence, or all answers strictly confidential.
| Type | Historical phrase |
|---|---|
| Earliest example in the archive | June 5, 1881, Chicago Daily Tribune |
| Most common | 1850s to the 1920s |
Placing a personal ad carried a social risk, and replying to one could carry more. In confidence reassured readers that their letters would not be shown to anyone, and a reply box let the writer keep the same promise.
PERSONAL—A YOUNG MAN WITH a good business wishes to form the acquaintance of some lady with some means; object matrimony. Please address, in confidence, B 85, Tribune…
All dictionary entries · The Personals Archive · How to write a personal ad
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