Grammar fix
private conversation
conversation not for others
A talk between two or more people that is meant to be kept secret or not shared with others.
collocationB1common
Hear it in context
Notice where the phrase sounds natural.
They stepped outside to have a private conversation.
In my opinion, it's important to respect people's privacy, especially if they are having a private conversation.
Fix the pattern
One small grammar move makes it sound right.
Not: Can we have a private conversation in private?
Say: Can we have a private word?
Don't double up — 'a private conversation' or 'a word in private', not both.
Which sounds natural?
Tap the one a native speaker would say.
'A discussion of a confidential nature' is legalese; 'private conversation' is plain.
Build natural chunks
Words that usually travel with it.
a private conversation
- a private conversation
- have a word
- in private
- a quiet word