Privately
/ˈpraɪvətli/
Definitions
In a private or secret way; not in public.
/ˈpraɪvətli/
In a private manner; not publicly or openly.
They spoke privately about the upcoming merger.
💡 Simply: When something happens privately, it's like a secret or a one-on-one conversation. Imagine you and your friend telling secrets quietly in your room – that's doing something privately. If someone needs to tell you something important, they might ask to speak with you privately.
👶 For kids: When you do something privately, it means you're doing it when no one else can see or hear you, like whispering a secret.
More Examples
He handled the situation privately to avoid a scandal.
The doctor discussed the test results privately with the patient.
She invested in the stock market privately.
How It's Used
"He prefers to discuss sensitive matters privately."
"The company held its board meeting privately."
Idioms & expressions
in private
Away from other people; privately.
"The lawyer spoke to his client in private."
From "private" + "-ly", Middle English, from Old French *privé* (belonging to oneself) , from Latin *privatus* (set apart, belonging to an individual).
The word 'privately' has been used in English since the 15th century, originally to describe actions or matters done 'away from public view'.
Memory tip
Think of 'private' things – they're done 'privately'.