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.

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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.

The closed book holds the mystery's unknown enigma.

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.

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