privacy - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
privacy Word Meanings
- the state of being free from public attention
- personal space or confidentiality
- the right to keep personal information secret
privacy Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
privacy Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈprɪvəsi/
US
/ˈpraɪvəsi/
privacy Word Etymology
Root decomposition: priv- = deprived of, acy = state or condition. Historical origin: Latin → Old French → English. Memory image: Imagine a person sitting quietly at home, enjoying their private time away from the world, a clear shield around them.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
At the doorway I reach for the handle and pull it shut a fraction, as if guarding a tiny room inside me. I move through the day, adjusting what I share and turning down notifications to keep some space. The effort feels steady, like a quiet adjustment in how I act and think, a decision I can feel in my chest. Privacy reveals itself not as a rule but as the space I place between myself and the world, choosing what to keep quiet or visible.
Real Context
Privacy is the state of being free from public attention, the boundary between what you share and what you keep private, and the right to keep personal information secret. In daily life, privacy can mean physical space, like a closed door, and digital space, such as passwords, data sharing settings, and trust in institutions. People around the world value privacy differently and balance openness with security. When learning English, note that privacy often pairs with adjectives like personal or digital, and with verbs such as protect, invade, respect, and reveal. Common collocations include privacy policy, privacy settings, and personal privacy.
Usage Reminders
- Think about what you share online and with whom.
- Use privacy settings on apps and social networks.
- Protect personal data with strong, unique passwords.
- Respect others' privacy and avoid sharing sensitive details.
- Privacy is about control: know who can see what you reveal.
Common Misconceptions
- Privacy equals secrecy or hiding everything.
- Privacy only concerns online data or technology.
- If you have nothing to hide, you have no privacy.
- Privacy settings solve every privacy problem.
- Privacy is only a personal concern, not a social issue.
Thinking Differences
In English-speaking contexts, privacy is often framed as a personal right and social boundary negotiated with others and institutions; learners may mistake it for secrecy or assume privacy settings solve all problems.
Learning Tips
- Learn common collocations: privacy policy, privacy settings, personal privacy.
- Differentiate privacy from secrecy in everyday talk.
- Think about boundaries when sharing information online.
- Use verbs like protect, invade, respect, and reveal with privacy.
- Be mindful of privacy vs confidentiality in formal writing.
- Practice real-life scenarios: social media, apps, work data.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'privacy'?
A.The state of being public
B.The state of being famous
C.The state of being alone and free from observation or disturbance
D.The state of being careful
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence below uses the word 'privacy' correctly?
A.John enjoys privacy and often shares personal information on social media.
B.Privacy means constantly seeking attention from others.
C.Sarah's privacy was invaded when her diary was read without permission.
D.The privacy of a public park is always respected.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'privacy'?
A.Fame
B.Carefulness
C.Solitude
D.Publicity
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'privacy'?
A.Openness
B.Isolation
C.Transparency
D.Secrecy
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario of 'privacy'?
A.A person performing on a stage in front of a large audience
B.A person reading a book alone in a quiet library
C.A group of friends having a loud conversation in a crowded café
D.A person walking down a busy city street
Related Listening
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