What Happens in Vegas Stays in Vegas: Definition, Meaning and Origin

Last Updated on
May 13, 2023

The idiom implies that activities done in a particular place should remain secret and not be discussed elsewhere. When you say, "what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas," you are suggesting that certain events or behaviors should be kept private or discreet.

In short:

"What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas" means that activities done in a specific place should remain secret and not be discussed elsewhere.

What Does "What Happens in Vegas Stays in Vegas" Mean?

The idiom "what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas" is used to express the idea that what happens in a certain place should be kept a secret. This phrase is most common in informal contexts and often implies a sense of freedom to engage in activities that might be considered unusual or reckless elsewhere.

Key aspects of the idiom's meaning include:

  • Encouraging discretion about events or behaviors
  • Suggesting that unconventional actions are accepted or overlooked
  • Used mostly in casual conversation

Where Does "What Happens in Vegas Stays in Vegas" Come From?

The phrase "what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas" is a popular saying that implies a sense of secrecy and confidentiality in the city of Las Vegas. Originally, it was created by the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority along with R&R Partners in 2003 as part of a marketing campaign to rebrand Las Vegas as a place where visitors could let loose and have fun. In fact, the original phrase was “what happens here, stays here.” Moreover, the slogan was intended to diversify Las Vegas’ image and brand beyond the Wild West, gambling, and family-friendly activities.

Historical Example

"The allure of 'What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas' isn't what happens in Vegas but the unfulfilled possibility of what might have happened the last time and what might happen the next, even as nothing is likely to ever happen."

- Los Angeles Magazine, 2005

10 Examples of "What Happens in Vegas Stays in Vegas" in Sentences

Here are some examples of using the idiom in sentences:

  • We had a blast in Miami but remember, in the spirit of the saying, what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas.
  • She laughed and said, "What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas," playfully when asked about her bachelorette party.
  • Do you really believe that "What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas"? I'd err on the side of caution if I were you.
  • They reassured me that what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas, but I still felt uneasy regardless.
  • He winked and said, "What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas," suggestively when asked about his trip.
  • He wants to get with me after the party. I told him, "What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas."
  • Just remember, guys, as the saying goes, what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas.
  • The motto "What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas" doesn't apply when the law is involved, however.
  • The dynamic duo said, "What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas," nonchalantly when questioned about their weekend.
  • Of course, I'm here to seize the day. After all, "what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas."

Examples of "What Happens in Vegas Stays in Vegas" in Pop Culture

This phrase has become a staple in media and pop culture, especially in relation to Las Vegas-themed films and songs.

Some notable examples include:

  • The phrase was the tagline for the 2008 comedy film "What Happens in Vegas," starring Cameron Diaz and Ashton Kutcher.
  • Several songs reference the phrase in their lyrics, such as "Waking Up in Vegas" by Katy Perry and "Vegas" by Sara Bareilles.
  • "What Happens in Vegas Stays on YouTube" is a book by Erik Qualman that explores the impact of technology and social media on our personal and professional lives.

Other/Different Ways to Say "What Happens in Vegas Stays in Vegas"

There are several alternatives to expressing the idiom in English.

Some of these alternatives include:

  • What's done here stays here
  • Let's keep this between us
  • What's done in secret stays secret
  • This doesn't leave the room
  • Let's not air our dirty laundry

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "What Happens in Vegas Stays in Vegas":

  • What does "what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas" mean?

"What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas" means that activities done in a specific place should remain secret and not be discussed elsewhere. You can use the phrase to imply that any events or behaviors that occur in that place will remain private. 

  • Where does the phrase come from?

The phrase "what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas" originated from a marketing campaign by the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority in 2003 to encourage tourism.

  • How can I use "what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas" in a sentence?

You can use "what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas" to suggest that an event or behavior should be kept confidential. For example, "We had a great weekend, but remember, what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas."

  • Is "what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas" a formal or informal phrase?

"What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas" is generally considered an informal phrase, more commonly used in casual conversation and less frequently in formal writing or professional situations.

  • Does the phrase imply permission to act recklessly?

While the phrase "what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas" suggests a certain level of leniency towards unconventional behavior, it does not excuse reckless or illegal activities.

  • Can one use the phrase outside the context of Las Vegas?

Yes, the phrase can be used metaphorically to suggest discretion and privacy in any situation, not just those occurring in Las Vegas.

  • What are some similar phrases to "what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas"?

Similar phrases include "what's done here, stays here" and "this doesn't leave the room".

  • Does the phrase have any negative connotations?

While "what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas" is often used humorously or casually, it can imply secrecy or discretion around potentially irresponsible or reckless behavior. Therefore, in certain contexts, it can carry negative connotations.

  • What is the best way to use the phrase in a casual conversation?

In a casual conversation, you can use the phrase to suggest keeping an event or story confidential. For example, after a lively party, you might say, "Remember, what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas."

  • Is the idiom an offensive or derogatory term?

"What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas" is not inherently offensive or derogatory. However, the appropriateness of the phrase depends on the context in which it is used, and it may be viewed as promoting irresponsible behavior in some settings.

Final Thoughts About "What Happens in Vegas Stays in Vegas"

To sum up, the idiom "what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas" suggests that people should keep events or actions that occur in a particular place secret and not discuss them elsewhere. Although the idiom specifically mentions Las Vegas, you can apply it metaphorically to any situation where you desire discretion.

Key aspects of the phrase:

  • It suggests a need for confidentiality or secrecy
  • It came from a tourism marketing campaign for Las Vegas
  • It is more appropriate in informal or casual contexts

By understanding and using the phrase in your casual conversations, you can effectively express a desire for privacy or discretion. Nonetheless, remain mindful of the context when using this idiom, as some situations may view it as promoting irresponsible behavior.

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