Describe information and places that are not open to everyone.
The idea
Private can describe personal information or access limited to particular people. In private means without others present.
Examples
- This is a private message.
- Please keep my address private.
- The garden is private property.
- We had a private conversation upstairs.
- Only staff can enter the private office.
- Her diary contains private thoughts.
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Watch out
A private place is not necessarily secret; access can simply be limited.
Try it yourself
Choose the correct option. This email is personal; please keep it ___. (private / public)
Show answer or example answer
private
Private fits personal information that should not be shared.
Choose the correct option. The sign says only members may enter: it is a ___ club. (private / public)
Show answer or example answer
private
Private describes a club limited to members.
Choose the correct option. We spoke in ___. (private / privately)
Show answer or example answer
private
In private is the fixed phrase for being away from other people.
Practice round
Answer questions and rebuild English sentences to practise. Your score is shown.
Choose the correct option. This email is personal; please keep it ___. (private / public)
Choose the correct option. The sign says only members may enter: it is a ___ club. (private / public)
Choose the correct option. We spoke in ___. (private / privately)
Tap the words in the right order.
Tap the words in the right order.
Tap the words in the right order.
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Describe a private conversation and a place with restricted access.