B1adjective1K

Private

UK /["/ˈpraɪvət/"]/US /["/ˈpraɪvət/"]/

Definition

belonging to or for the use of a particular person or group; not for public use

In simple words: Something that is not shared with others or kept secret.

Examples

I prefer to keep my personal life private.
The private meeting was only for senior managers.
She has a very private personality and doesn't share much.
He enjoyed the quietness of the private garden.
Many celebrities choose to lead a private life away from the media.
That information is private and cannot be shared with others.

Usage notes

Use 'private' to describe personal matters or spaces intended for one person or a small group. Avoid using it in overly casual scenarios.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of a 'private eye' who keeps secrets.

Collocations

private conversation
private property
private life
private meeting
private sector

Synonyms

secret

Antonyms

public
open
shared

Common mistakes

Confused with 'personal' which has a different nuance.
Using 'private' in formal contexts when 'confidential' is more appropriate.
Omitting the context, leading to ambiguity.