to oneself

to oneself (1)  {adv. phr.}
1. Silently; in the thoughts; without making a sign that others can see; secretly.
Tom thought to himself that he could win.
Mary said to herself that Joan was prettier than Ann.
Bill laughed to himself when John fell down.
2. Without telling others; in private; as a secret. — Used after "keep".
Mary keeps her affairs to herself.
John knew the answer to the problem, but he kept it to himself.
Categories: {adv. phr.}