closed book: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘closed book’ mean?
The idiom "closed book" means something that is difficult to understand or figure out. It refers to a person or a subject that is mysterious or not easily accessible.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "know every trick in the book" means to be knowledgeable and experienced in all the methods, techniques, or strategies related to a particular subject or activity.
The idiom "keep quiet" means to remain silent or not speak, especially when it is important to do so in order to maintain secrecy, avoid trouble, or not reveal information.
The idiom "keep one's lips sealed" means to keep quiet or not reveal a secret or confidential information.
The idiom "keep one's cards close to one's chest" means to keep one's thoughts, plans, or intentions secret or hidden in order to maintain an advantage or not reveal too much information.
The idiom "keep a lid on" means to maintain control over something, especially to prevent it from becoming known or causing trouble.
The idiom "it's all Greek to me" means that something is completely incomprehensible or unintelligible. It is often used when someone cannot understand or make sense of something, especially when it is written or spoken in a foreign language or using technical jargon.
The idiom "in the dark" means being unaware or uninformed about something, lacking knowledge or understanding. It is often used to describe a situation where someone is kept ignorant or intentionally left out of important information or events.
The idiom "in the books" refers to something that has been officially recorded or completed. It can imply that an action has been completed according to regulations or plans.
The idiom "in a box" means to be trapped or restricted in a situation or place where there is little or no room for movement or choice.
The idiom "in a bind" means to be in a difficult or challenging situation where there are not many options or solutions available.
Hidden Secrets
"behind closed doors" is another idiom that is related to the concept of a closed book. This expression implies that something is happening or being discussed in private or in secrecy. It suggests that there is an element of mystery or confidentiality surrounding the situation.
When used together with the idiom "closed book," the phrase "behind closed doors" reinforces the idea that something is being kept hidden or concealed from the public eye. It adds an additional layer of secrecy and intrigue to the concept of a closed book.
"hard nut to crack" is a phrase that can also be associated with the idiom "closed book." It is used to describe a person, situation, or problem that is difficult to understand or solve. In this context, the closed book represents the challenge or complexity that one faces when trying to unravel or comprehend the subject at hand.
When combined with the idiom "closed book," the phrase "hard nut to crack" emphasizes the idea that something is not only difficult to understand but also requires considerable effort and persistence to decipher or solve. It suggests that the closed book is not easily opened or accessible.
An additional idiom that is related to the concept of a closed book is "in the dark." This expression is used to describe a state of being uninformed or unaware. It conveys the idea that someone is lacking knowledge or understanding about a particular situation or subject.
When used alongside the idiom "closed book," the phrase "in the dark" reinforces the notion that something is not readily accessible or known. It suggests that the closed book is keeping valuable information hidden or concealed, leaving individuals in a state of ignorance or uncertainty.
Lastly, the idiom "blue chamber" can be connected to the idea of a closed book. Although not as commonly used as the previous idioms, "blue chamber" is a metaphorical term that refers to a secret or sacred place that holds important or hidden knowledge.
When used in conjunction with the idiom "closed book," the phrase "blue chamber" further emphasizes the sense of secrecy and mystery surrounding the closed book. It suggests that there are hidden chambers of knowledge and understanding that are not easily accessible or revealed.
The idiom "closed book" is a versatile expression that can be used to convey the idea of something that is difficult to understand or figure out. When combined with related idioms such as "behind closed doors," "hard nut to crack," "in the dark," and "blue chamber," it reinforces the notions of secrecy, complexity, and inaccessibility. These idioms add depth and nuance to the concept of a closed book, highlighting the challenges and mysteries that lie behind its closed pages.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "closed book" can be used in a sentence:
- She never shares her personal life with others; she's a closed book.
- I tried to ask him about his past, but he remains a closed book.
- Her thoughts and feelings were a closed book to everyone around her.