To "keep something to yourself" refers to the act of not sharing or disclosing information, thoughts, or emotions with others, thereby maintaining confidentiality or privacy. It denotes the deliberate decision to keep a secret or withhold information from others, whether it is personal experiences, opinions, ideas, concerns, or other related matters. It entails consciously opting to refrain from sharing certain details or feelings with others, holding back from expressing oneself openly or honestly.
By choosing to "keep something to yourself," individuals exercise control over their personal information, often driven by reasons such as privacy, discretion, or even a desire to maintain power or advantage in certain circumstances. This expression implies the preservation of confidentiality as a means to protect personal or sensitive matters, or to maintain a sense of security and control over one's own life.
"Keeping something to yourself" can also be seen as a sign of introversion or a preference for solitude, wherein individuals choose to keep their innermost thoughts and emotions within themselves rather than disclosing them to others. It relates to the notion of being self-reliant and self-contained, safeguarding personal feelings or knowledge to maintain a sense of autonomy, independence, or personal boundaries.
Overall, "keeping something to yourself" represents the act of consciously and intentionally withholding information, ideas, or emotions from others, often motivated by a desire for confidentiality, personal control, privacy, or introversion.
