in camera

USAGE SUMMARY

"in camera" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is defined as "conducted in private, not open to the public," and is commonly used in legal and legislative contexts. For example, you might say, "The jury retired to the judge's chambers for deliberations in camera."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

Closed, or "in camera", hearings are not unprecedented.

The Guardian

In camera.

Los Angeles Times

Warping is a common appearance in camera captured document images.

Procedia Computer Science

It has invested heavily in camera crews and stagecraft.

The Economist

All her evidence is being held in camera.

Independent

Since then, all proceedings are being conducted in camera.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

Some use its built-in camera.

The New York Times - Arts

Built-in camera?

TechCrunch

That built-in camera, for instance, is pretty handy.

Forbes

Then you take a headshot using a built-in camera.

TechCrunch

It has a built-in camera and Wi-Fi.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in camera" primarily when describing legal or official proceedings that are not open to the public or the media. It is most appropriate in formal writing.

Common error

Avoid using "in camera" to simply mean "private" in general contexts. The phrase carries a specific legal and procedural connotation that is not interchangeable with everyday privacy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in camera" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to indicate the manner in which an action is performed. Specifically, it describes that an action, like a legal proceeding, is carried out privately or secretly. Ludwig confirms this usage, providing examples of its application in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

20%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "in camera" is an adverbial phrase that signifies privacy or secrecy, particularly in legal or official contexts. Ludwig AI affirms its grammatical correctness and provides examples demonstrating its use across news, formal, and scientific domains. While not a frequent expression, when used, it adds a layer of formality and precision to the writing. It is important to distinguish its specific legal connotation from more general terms of privacy, such as "in private" or "behind closed doors". Therefore, reserve the use of the phrase "in camera" for describing those instances where a proceeding or discussion takes place out of public view within a legal or official framework.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in private

Replaces "camera" with the general term "private", focusing on the lack of public access.

privately

A single-word adverb conveying the same meaning of conducting something in a non-public manner.

behind closed doors

Emphasizes the physical aspect of privacy and exclusion from public view.

in executive session

A formal term for a private meeting, often used in governmental or organizational contexts.

out of the public eye

Focuses on preventing public awareness or scrutiny.

in secret

Highlights the confidential nature of the proceedings or discussion.

not in public

A straightforward way to express that something is happening away from the public eye.

confidentially

Implies that the information discussed is sensitive and not to be disclosed.

off the record

Specifically used in journalistic contexts, indicating information not for publication.

under wraps

Suggests that information is being kept secret or concealed.

FAQs

What does "in camera" mean in legal terms?

In legal contexts, "in camera" refers to a hearing or other proceeding that takes place in private, typically in a judge's chambers or a closed courtroom, excluding the public and the press.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "in camera"?

Use "in camera" specifically when referring to legal or official proceedings conducted privately. For general situations of privacy, consider alternatives like "in private" or "behind closed doors".

Is "in camera" the same as "in secret"?

While both imply privacy, "in camera" has a specific legal meaning, whereas "in secret" is a more general term for confidentiality. Use "in camera" when referring to legal proceedings that are not open to the public.

What is an example of "in camera" being used correctly?

A correct usage is: "The judge ordered the sensitive documents to be reviewed "in camera" to protect the privacy of the individuals involved."