Cool MatePrivacy
UK /["/ˈprɪvəsi/"]/US /["/ˈpraɪvəsi/"]/
Definition
the state of being alone and not watched or interrupted by other people
In simple words: Keeping your personal information safe and hidden from others.
Examples
- In today's digital age, maintaining privacy is more important than ever.
- She values her privacy and prefers to keep her personal life out of the public eye.
- The company has strict policies in place to ensure the privacy of its customers.
- With social media, many people unknowingly sacrifice their privacy.
- Legislation is being developed to protect the privacy of users online.
Usage notes
Use 'privacy' when discussing personal space or data protection. It's important in contexts related to technology, law, and personal relationships. Avoid in very casual conversations.
Grammar pattern
standalone noun
Memory hint
Think of 'private sea' — imagine a calm sea that's all yours, away from prying eyes.
Collocations
- absolute
- complete
- total
- ensure
- guarantee
- preserve
- in privacy
- in the privacy of
- privacy from
- an intrusion of privacy
- an invasion of privacy
- an intrusion on (somebody’s) privacy
- absolute
- complete
- total
- ensure
- guarantee
- preserve
- in privacy
- in the privacy of
- privacy from
- an intrusion of privacy
- an invasion of privacy
- an intrusion on (somebody’s) privacy
Synonyms
- confidentiality
- seclusion
- intimacy
- solitude
Antonyms
- exposure
- openess
Common mistakes
- Confused with 'private' — 'privacy' is a noun, 'private' is an adjective.
- Using 'privacy' inappropriately in informal settings — it may sound too serious.
- Mixing up 'privacy' with 'secrecy' — they are not exactly the same.