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Showing results for in private. Search instead for safe private.
Definitions

in private

ADJECTIVE
off the record
Synonyms
WEAK
arcane backdoor classified hush-hush hushed inside not for publication not public on the Q.T. private privy secret unofficial
ADJECTIVE
secretive
Synonyms
STRONGEST
covert enigmatic reticent taciturn
WEAK
backstairs buttoned-up cagey clammed up close close-mouthed cryptic feline furtive hushed in chambers in privacy in the background in the dark on the Q.T. reserved silent tight-lipped undercover unforthcoming withdrawn zipped
Antonyms
STRONGEST
communicative
WEAK
forthright honest open

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The process is conducted in private, before the arbitrators take time to consider their verdict.

From BBC • May 1, 2026

In London, the Treasury collected billions in taxes on North Sea producers but largely left investment, development and ownership in private hands, especially after Margaret Thatcher became prime minister in 1979.

From BBC • Apr. 29, 2026

Investment firms that manage business development companies which invest in private capital have struggled in 2026.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 28, 2026

Sensible investor-friendly rules should help young companies grow in private markets and also allow them to keep thriving after they graduate to the public markets.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 27, 2026

It gave me some appreciation for what my parents might have been going through back in the fall when I’d spent a majority of my time in private retreat.

From "Anthem of a Reluctant Prophet" by Joanne Proulx