for personal matters

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "for personal matters" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it in situations when something is being done for reasons that are personal and private. For example, "I'm sorry, I can't attend the meeting today - I need to take care of some personal matters."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

Meanwhile, the site manager returned to France for personal matters.

The New York Times

One was for White House business, the second was for personal matters and the third was issued by the re-election campaign.

The New York Times

Within weeks, residents began accusing him of abusing his office by using the borough car for personal matters and restricting critics' opportunity to speak at public meetings.

The New York Times

Those violations include misconduct, which could range from inappropriate language on a government computer to adultery, prohibited under military law; more than an incidental use of government property for personal matters; and security breaches.

The New York Times

"On the other hand, the ubiquity of those devices has made them generally affordable, so one could counter that employees who need cellphones or similar devices for personal matters can purchase and pay for their own".

The New York Times

The bureau's internal affairs unit, the Office of Professional Responsibility, became a much-feared inquisitor, sometimes damaging careers over minor offenses like using a bureau car for personal matters.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

Adrian Peterson back with Vikings after missing practice yesterday for personal matter.

Huffington Post

Taylor apologizes for bringing personal matters into the broadcast, but Will is begging for punishment after firing Mac.

Los Angeles Times

For once, personal matters might be less important to voters than inflation, insecurity, inefficiency and all the accusations of corruption.

The New York Times

"They are not donations, they are the payment of cash to senator Sam Dastyari for unspecified personal matters".

The Guardian

If I were in Terri Schiavo's position, I would hate to become a rallying point for government intrusion into personal matters, legislation tailor-made for one specific person, and political grandstanding by people who never knew me.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "for personal matters", ensure that the context clearly indicates that the details are not to be shared or discussed openly, respecting privacy boundaries.

Common error

Avoid using "for personal matters" as a constant placeholder, as it can sound evasive. When appropriate, provide a brief, general explanation to maintain transparency and trust without oversharing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "for personal matters" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the reason or purpose behind an action. It provides a general explanation for why something is being done, often implying that the details are private or not relevant. According to Ludwig, this phrase is correct and can be used in many contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Science

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "for personal matters" is a correct and commonly used prepositional phrase that serves to indicate the reason behind an action or decision while maintaining privacy. Ludwig's AI confirms its validity and broad applicability. It is particularly prevalent in "News & Media" and "Wiki" contexts, and its neutral register makes it appropriate for a variety of situations. When using this phrase, be mindful of providing just enough information to be respectful without being evasive, and consider alternatives such as "private reasons" when a slightly different nuance is desired.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

regarding private affairs

Focuses more on the topic of discussion rather than the action taken.

concerning private life

Focuses on the overall sphere of someone's non-professional existence.

concerning individual issues

Highlights the specific problems or challenges someone is facing.

to address personal needs

Highlights the necessity of dealing with these matters.

pertaining to personal business

Emphasizes the transactional or obligatory nature of the matters.

regarding confidential matters

Highlights the privacy and secrecy involved in the matters.

relating to private concerns

Stresses the worry or anxiety associated with the matters.

related to individual situations

Broadly refers to circumstances unique to an individual.

in connection with personal affairs

More formal and emphasizes a link to broader aspects of someone's life.

for handling family matters

Specifically refers to issues related to family and relatives.

FAQs

How can I politely decline to provide details when asked about "for personal matters"?

You can say something like, "I appreciate your concern, but it's a "personal matter" I'm not comfortable discussing right now." This acknowledges their interest while setting a boundary.

What is a professional way to request time off using "for personal matters"?

You might state, "I need to request a day off work to attend to "personal affairs". I've already made arrangements to ensure my responsibilities are covered." This is clear and respectful.

Is it appropriate to use "for personal matters" in formal communication?

Yes, it's generally acceptable, but consider the audience and context. In some situations, it may be better to offer a slightly more specific, but still vague, explanation like, "I need to address a "private concern"".

What are some alternatives to "for personal matters" that still maintain privacy?

Depending on the situation, you could use phrases such as "private reasons", "family obligations", or "unspecified commitments" if they are applicable.