Meaning of the word private in English

What does private mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

private

US /ˈpraɪ.vət/

UK /ˈpraɪ.vət/

belonging to or for the use of one particular person or group of people only

Example:

•

This is a private beach, not open to the public.

•

They held a private ceremony for close family members.

Synonym:

personal exclusive

Antonym:

public common

not connected with the government or the state

Example:

•

She works for a private company.

•

The hospital is funded by private donations.

Synonym:

independent non-governmental

Antonym:

public state governmental

not to be shared or made known to others; secret

Example:

•

I need to have a private conversation with you.

•

Keep this information strictly private.

Synonym:

confidential secret classified

Antonym:

public open known

a soldier of the lowest rank in the army

Example:

•

He joined the army as a private.

•

The private was assigned to guard duty.

Synonym:

recruit enlisted man