Meaning of the word "on a need-to-know basis" in English

What does "on a need-to-know basis" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

on a need-to-know basis

US /ɒn ə niːd tə noʊ ˈbeɪsɪs/
UK /ɒn ə niːd tə noʊ ˈbeɪsɪs/
"on a need-to-know basis" picture

Idiom

1.

only telling people information that they need to know and not telling them anything else

Example:
Access to the confidential files is strictly on a need-to-know basis.
We'll share information with you on a need-to-know basis as the project progresses.
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