private
Describes something that belongs to a specific person or group and is not for public use. It also refers to a place or conversation where others are not allowed to listen or watch.
Examples
3 of 5I need a private room to make a phone call.
I need a room where I can be alone to talk on the phone.
The committee will hold a private meeting to discuss the new policy.
The group will have a secret meeting to talk about the new rules.
Can we talk in private for a second?
Can we talk alone for a moment?
Synonyms
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of a 'Private' sign on a door; it means you cannot enter because someone wants to be alone or the space belongs to them.
Quick Quiz
This is a ______ conversation, so please do not tell anyone what I said.
Correct!
The correct answer is: private
Examples
I need a private room to make a phone call.
everydayI need a room where I can be alone to talk on the phone.
The committee will hold a private meeting to discuss the new policy.
formalThe group will have a secret meeting to talk about the new rules.
Can we talk in private for a second?
informalCan we talk alone for a moment?
The study ensured that all participant data remained private.
academicThe research made sure that information about people was kept secret.
Please do not share this private document with outside clients.
businessDo not show this internal paper to people who do not work here.
Synonyms
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
in private
without other people being present
private eye
a private investigator or detective
private parts
the areas of the body covered by underwear
Often Confused With
Personal relates to an individual's own body or feelings, while private relates to things kept away from public view.
Confidential is usually used in professional or legal contexts for information that must be kept secret.
Usage Notes
Use 'private' when you want to emphasize that something is not for everyone or that you want to be alone. It can be used both for physical spaces and for information.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes use 'private' when they mean 'privacy' (the noun). For example, saying 'I need my private' instead of 'I need my privacy.'
Memory Tip
Think of a 'Private' sign on a door; it means you cannot enter because someone wants to be alone or the space belongs to them.
Word Origin
From the Latin 'privatus', meaning 'withdrawn from public life' or 'belonging to oneself'.
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
In many Western cultures, having private space and time is considered a very important personal right.
Quick Quiz
This is a ______ conversation, so please do not tell anyone what I said.
Correct!
The correct answer is: private
Related Grammar Rules
Related Words
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