private · adj
private (NOT OFFICIAL)
B2 controlled or paid for by a person or company and not by the government
Dictionary examples:
a private school (11.9)
The governor is on vacation and traveling as a private citizen. (61.8)
in private
B2 in a place where nobody else can hear you or see what you are doing
Dictionary examples:
They wanted to talk in private. (19.7)
private (SECRET)
B1 describes activities which involve personal matters or relationships and are not connected with your work
Dictionary examples:
Sarah's private nap schedule was her most guarded secret at work. (0.0)
My sister's private diary turned out to be a menu collection. (0.0)
He kept his love for cheese so private, even his fridge didn't know. (0.0)
Apparently in interviews he refuses to talk about his private life. (32.6)
private (NOT EVERYONE)
B1 only for one person or group and not for everyone
Dictionary examples:
I have a private library. It's just my phone, but it has lots of e-books! (0.0)
I have a private gym at home. It's just me lifting my heavy textbooks! (0.0)
I have a private stash of chocolate. Not even my mom knows where it is! (0.0)
She has a small, private office. (14.9)
I caught him looking through my private papers. (19.6)
We can't play ball here - it's private property. (57.2)