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back channels

[/bæk ˈtʃænəlz/]
nounpl: back channels
canais informais/secretos
1. Unofficial or covert methods of communication, typically used to conduct negotiations or discussions outside of formal procedures
The diplomats used back channels to negotiate the peace agreement without public scrutiny.
Os diplomatas usaram canais informais para negociar o acordo de paz sem escrutínio público.
2. Secret or indirect routes of communication between individuals or organizations
Intelligence agencies often communicate through back channels to protect sensitive information.
As agências de inteligência frequentemente se comunicam através de canais secretos para proteger informações sensíveis.
NYC Slang
the underground/the grapevine (for informal communication networks)
Synonyms
covert channelsinformal channelssecret channelsunderground channels
Antonyms
official channelsformal channelspublic channels

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
canais informais/secretos
Most commonly used in diplomatic and political contexts
São Paulo
canais paralelos
Alternative term often used in business communication
Portugal
canais secretos/paralelos
Formal diplomatic usage, similar to standard Portuguese

Related Idioms & Phrases

go through back channels
use back channels
establish back channels
informal diplomacy
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