When it comes to the world of business and technology, understanding the slang for proprietary can give you a leg up in conversations and negotiations. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, our team has put together a list of the most essential terms to keep you in the know. Stay ahead of the curve and elevate your industry knowledge with our comprehensive guide to proprietary slang.
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1. Closed-source
This term refers to software that is not openly available for modification or redistribution. It is owned and controlled by a single entity, typically a company, and the source code is kept private.
- For example, “Microsoft Office is a closed-source software suite.”
- In a discussion about open-source vs closed-source software, someone might say, “Closed-source software can provide better security since the code is not publicly accessible.”
- A developer might mention, “Working with closed-source software requires signing a license agreement and adhering to certain restrictions.”
2. In-house
This term describes something that is done or created within an organization or company, rather than being outsourced or obtained from an external source.
- For instance, “We have an in-house team of designers who handle all our graphic design needs.”
- In a conversation about software development, someone might say, “We decided to build our own in-house solution instead of purchasing a pre-existing one.”
- A company might advertise job openings as “seeking in-house talent” to emphasize their preference for internal hires.
3. Secret sauce
This phrase is often used metaphorically to refer to a unique or special element that contributes to the success or effectiveness of something.
- For example, “The secret sauce of our marketing strategy is our personalized approach.”
- In a discussion about a successful business, someone might say, “Their secret sauce is their exceptional customer service.”
- A chef might describe a signature dish as having a “secret sauce” that sets it apart from other similar dishes.
4. Behind closed doors
This phrase means that something is done or discussed in private, away from public view or scrutiny.
- For instance, “The negotiations took place behind closed doors, and the details were not made public.”
- In a conversation about government decision-making, someone might say, “We need transparency, not decisions made behind closed doors.”
- A company might hold a meeting “behind closed doors” to discuss sensitive financial information.
5. Under wraps
This phrase means that something is being kept secret or hidden from public knowledge.
- For example, “The new product features are still under wraps until the official launch.”
- In a discussion about upcoming movies, someone might say, “The plot of the highly anticipated film is still under wraps.”
- A company might keep a new project “under wraps” to maintain a competitive advantage and surprise their competitors.
6. Hush-hush
This term refers to information or activities that are meant to be kept secret or confidential. It implies that the information is not meant to be shared with others.
- For example, “The details of the new product launch are hush-hush until the official announcement.”
- In a conversation about a sensitive topic, someone might say, “Let’s keep this hush-hush for now.”
- When discussing a private matter, a person might say, “This is hush-hush, so please don’t share it with anyone.”
7. Eyes only
This phrase indicates that the information is intended for a specific person or group and should not be shared with others. It emphasizes the need for confidentiality and restricts access to the information.
- For instance, a document might be labeled “Eyes Only” to indicate that only certain individuals are allowed to read it.
- In a confidential email, the subject line might say, “Eyes Only: Important Update.”
- A person might say, “I can’t discuss the details right now, but it’s eyes only for you.”
8. Classified
This term is commonly used to describe information or documents that are highly confidential and restricted to a select group of individuals. Classified information is often related to national security or sensitive matters.
- For example, government agencies classify certain documents to protect sensitive information from unauthorized access.
- In a discussion about military operations, someone might mention, “That information is classified, and only certain personnel have access.”
- A person might say, “I can’t share the details because it’s classified information.”
9. Privy
Being “privy” to something means having knowledge or information that is not widely known or accessible. It implies being part of a select group or having insider information.
- For instance, “He’s privy to the company’s future plans because he’s on the executive team.”
- In a conversation about a secret project, someone might ask, “Are you privy to any details?”
- A person might say, “I’m not privy to all the information, but I can share what I know.”
10. Non-public
This term refers to information or data that is not available or accessible to the general public. It implies that the information is restricted and should only be accessed by authorized individuals.
- For example, “The non-public financial statements are only accessible to shareholders and certain stakeholders.”
- In a discussion about a confidential report, someone might say, “We need to keep this non-public until we have a plan.”
- A person might ask, “Is this information considered non-public?”
11. For internal use only
This phrase is used to indicate that something, such as a document or information, is intended for use within a specific organization and should not be shared with external parties. It emphasizes the need for confidentiality and limited distribution.
- For example, a company might label a sensitive document as “For internal use only” to ensure that it is not leaked to competitors.
- In a meeting, a presenter might mention, “The financial projections we are about to discuss are for internal use only.”
- An employee might receive an email stating, “Please remember that the information in this email is confidential and for internal use only.”