privados
/pree-BAH-dohs/
private
A locked gate represents something private, belonging only to a specific person.
privados(adjective)
private
?not public or belonging to a specific person/group
personal
?related to one's own life
📝 In Action
Ellos estudian en colegios privados.
A2They study in private schools.
Son asuntos privados del jefe.
B1They are the boss's private matters.
💡 Grammar Points
Masculine Plural
Use this form 'privados' when describing more than one thing that is masculine (like 'colegios') or a mixed group of things.
⭐ Usage Tips
Private vs. Public
Just like in English, this word is the direct opposite of 'públicos'. Use it for services you pay for or secrets you keep.
A sealed envelope symbolizes direct and private messages sent between people.
📝 In Action
Le escribí varios privados pero no me respondió.
B1I sent him several DMs but he didn't answer me.
⭐ Usage Tips
Social Media Slang
You will often hear 'mándame un privado' (send me a DM). 'Privados' simply refers to the plural of these messages.
An empty cage can represent the feeling of being deprived of something important.
privados(adjective)
deprived
?when someone is stripped of a right or a thing
lacking
?not having something necessary
📝 In Action
Fueron privados de sus derechos básicos.
B2They were deprived of their basic rights.
Los prisioneros están privados de libertad.
C1The prisoners are deprived of freedom (imprisoned).
💡 Grammar Points
Using 'de'
When this word means 'deprived,' it is almost always followed by the word 'de' to show what is missing.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: privados
Question 1 of 2
Which of these is the most common use of 'privados' on social media?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Does 'privados' always mean 'private'?
Mostly, yes! However, in formal contexts, it can also mean 'deprived of' something, usually followed by the word 'de'.
Can I use 'privados' for a group of women?
No, if the group is strictly female or the nouns are feminine (like 'casas'), you should use 'privadas'.