privately

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "privately" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to actions or communications that are intended to be kept confidential or not shared with the public. Example: "She decided to discuss the matter privately to avoid any misunderstandings."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The decision to abandon the Pain-Capable Unborn Protection Act was privately welcomed by moderates within the party.

The Guardian

Privately, Cameron is still waiting to hear more clearly from the hesitant Obama about what his strategic thinking might be.

The Guardian

Labour MPs admit privately they are all deeply worried about the SNP surge, which allows the SNP to challenge for seats where it was previously a distant also-ran.

The Guardian

For all the optimism, church insiders privately acknowledge the decline of what are often already tiny rural churches means something will have to change.

The Guardian

The four-month trial will be the first time BP has faced a UK court over its actions overseas and the first time compensation for environmental damage to privately owned land, caused by a UK oil company, has been litigated in the UK.

The Guardian

It's good to be back, but I'm in a privately owned ex-council flat.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

A new report by the National Union of Students (NUS) reveals that over three quarters of students have problems with their privately rented accommodation.

The Guardian

Natasha Slee, a fashion journalism graduate from the University of the Arts London who lived in a privately rented flat for two years of her degree, says: "We had silverfish in the carpets around the bathroom.

The Guardian

"It's essential that we can rehearse these sensitive scenarios privately," said Munro in his email.

The Guardian

He was also challenged about his privately educated background, as the leader of a party that claims to be anti-establishment.

The Guardian

Miliband, who has been criticised privately by some Labour MPs for not making his mark on the leadership rapidly or firmly enough, insisted that union members would remain a vital part of decision-making.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When choosing between "privately" and other similar adverbs like "secretly" or "confidentially", consider the specific nuance you want to convey. "Privately" often implies a setting or context that is not public, whereas "secretly" implies more active concealment.

Common error

Avoid using "privately" when you actually mean "personally". "Privately" refers to something done in a non-public manner, while "personally" refers to something done by an individual in their own capacity or with their own feelings. For example, say "I personally prefer this option" not "I privately prefer this option".

Linguistic Context

The adverb "privately" functions primarily to modify verbs or clauses, indicating that an action is performed or a thought is held in a non-public, confidential, or discreet manner. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its use to specify how an action is carried out.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "privately" is a versatile adverb used to denote actions or thoughts conducted in a non-public or confidential manner. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, "privately" signals discretion and is distinct from words like "personally". It’s key to use "privately" when emphasizing the lack of public visibility, and its nuances are crucial for precise communication. Remember, while related to terms like "secretly" or "confidentially", the specific context dictates the most appropriate choice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in private

Focuses on the location or setting where something occurs, emphasizing a lack of public presence.

confidentially

Emphasizes the trust and secrecy involved in sharing information.

secretly

Highlights the hidden nature of an action or piece of information.

off the record

Indicates that a statement or discussion is not intended for public release.

behind closed doors

Emphasizes that a meeting or decision is made without public access.

personally

Shifts the focus to an individual's direct involvement or feelings, rather than a public statement.

between ourselves

Highlights the exclusivity and confidentiality of a shared understanding.

in confidence

Similar to confidentially, but emphasizes the expectation of trust.

not for publication

Explicitly states that information is not to be made public.

strictly confidential

Emphasizes the high level of secrecy and sensitivity.

FAQs

How can I use "privately" in a sentence?

"Privately" is used to describe actions or thoughts that are kept secret or not shared publicly. For example: "The CEO addressed the concerns "in private"".

What is a synonym for "privately"?

Alternatives to "privately" include "confidentially", "secretly", or "in private". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "I privately think"?

Yes, it is correct to say "I privately think..." to express a thought you are not sharing publicly. For example: "I "secretly" think it's a bad idea, but I don't want to say it out loud."

What's the difference between "privately" and "confidentially"?

"Privately" emphasizes the non-public setting or manner of an action, while "confidentially" emphasizes the trust and secrecy involved in sharing information. You might discuss something "in private", while sharing something "confidentially".