on the private side

USAGE SUMMARY

"on the private side" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to something that is hidden from the public eye or not officially acknowledged. For example, "I have a successful career on the public side, but I'm also doing some interesting work on the private side."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

43 human-written examples

"The flip side of it," he added, "was I was being compensated on the private side".

The New York Times

Any travel they've done on behalf of Excel is strictly on the private side.

The New York Times

On the private side, hacktivism can be a tool of liberation.

The Washington Post

On the private side, the neighborhood's accomplished schools are often a high priority for newer families.

The New York Times

"They also need to acknowledge this challenge on the private side of the marketplace".

The New York Times

On the private side, what is the role of western private companies and what of local African companies?

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

17 human-written examples

IDEO has done some work, especially in Dubai, but more on the private sector side rather than the social sector side.

Forbes

This is happening to be the case on the private banking side, too," he said.

The New York Times

On the private company side people are not as optimistic as before.

The Guardian - Business

On the private sector side, there will be competition for three contracts to maintain, renew and upgrade the underground.

The Guardian

"We believe the E.C.B. will need to step up considerably its purchase program especially on the private asset side," Mr. Peruzzo said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "on the private side" to clearly differentiate between activities, information, or aspects that are not public or official versus those that are. This ensures clarity in contexts where both public and private dimensions exist.

Common error

Avoid using "on the private side" when "in private" is more appropriate. "On the private side" refers to a general sphere or aspect, whereas "in private" describes an action or conversation happening discreetly. For instance, say "they discussed the matter in private" instead of "on the private side".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on the private side" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a noun or verb, introducing a qualifier that specifies a particular, non-public aspect of an activity or entity. As Ludwig indicates, the phrase correctly differentiates between public and private domains.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

59%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

8%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "on the private side" is a common and grammatically correct prepositional phrase used to distinguish between private and public aspects of an activity, entity, or piece of information. According to Ludwig, this expression follows standard grammar rules and is deemed correct and usable. It is most frequently found in news and media contexts, as well as in formal business settings. When using this phrase, ensure that it accurately differentiates the non-public sphere from the public one. Avoid confusing it with similar phrases like "in private", which describe discreet actions rather than general domains.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

off the record

Indicates that statements or information are not intended for public disclosure or attribution.

behind closed doors

Highlights the secretive nature of discussions or actions, away from public scrutiny.

in strict confidence

Stresses the importance of maintaining secrecy and trust.

in private circles

Focuses on the exclusivity and confidentiality of interactions within a select group.

under wraps

Implies that information or activities are being concealed or kept secret.

within the confidential realm

Emphasizes the secrecy and restricted nature of the environment.

within the inner circle

Suggests that access or knowledge is limited to a select few close to the center of power or influence.

in a non-public capacity

Specifies that actions are performed without official or public representation.

in a clandestine manner

Highlights the secretive and often illicit nature of actions or communications.

on a personal level

Shifts the focus to individual experiences and interactions, rather than public roles.

FAQs

How can I use "on the private side" in a sentence?

Use "on the private side" to indicate activities, information, or aspects that are not public or official. For example, "On the private side, the company is developing a new technology".

What phrases are similar to "on the private side"?

Similar phrases include "in private circles", "behind closed doors", or "off the record", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What is the difference between "on the private side" and "in private"?

"On the private side" refers to a general sphere or aspect, while "in private" describes an action or conversation happening discreetly. For example, one might say "on the private side of the company, research is ongoing", but "they discussed the matter "in private"".

Is it correct to say "in the private side" instead of "on the private side"?

No, the correct and idiomatic expression is "on the private side". The preposition "on" is conventionally used to denote a particular aspect or domain, while "in the private side" is not standard English.