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private

When used as an adjective, "private" often contrasts with "public". For example, a private school is funded by individuals, while a public school is funded by the government. In military contexts, "private" is a noun referring to rank. Note that it is not capitalized unless it is part of a specific person's title (e.g., Private Smith). Be careful with the word "privacy," which is the noun form used to describe the state of being private.

💬Casual Conversation

🎬Tuesday afternoon, Chloe is in a lecture hall and Leo is at home gaming.
Leo Smith

stop snooping through my stuff. keep it private or i'm leaking your search history.

Leo Smith
Chloe Smith
Chloe Smith

you're literally tripping. i just wanted my charger back.

💡
Leo uses 'private' to demand boundaries regarding his personal space/items. Chloe responds with the slang term 'tripping', meaning he is overreacting or acting irrational.

Meanings

adjective

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

"She wrote her thoughts in a private diary."

adjective

Not intended for or open to public knowledge; secret.

"The two diplomats held a private meeting to discuss the treaty."

adjective

Provided by individuals or companies rather than by the state or government.

"He attends a private school in the city center."

noun

A soldier of the lowest rank in the army.

"The private was ordered to stand guard at the gate."

Last Updated: May 22, 2026Report an Error