Privacy: meaning, definitions and examples
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privacy
[ˈpraɪvəsi ]
Definition
data protection
Privacy refers to the state of being free from being observed or disturbed by other people. It is the right to keep one's personal information and actions confidential.
Synonyms
confidentiality, secrecy, solitude.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| privacy |
Use this word when referring to personal space or information that is kept away from the public eye. It often involves respecting someone's personal boundaries.
|
| confidentiality |
This word is suitable for professional or legal settings where information must be kept secret to protect someone's interests or to follow the law.
|
| secrecy |
Best used when referring to the deliberate act of keeping something hidden. It often has a negative connotation and might imply that something is being hidden for dubious reasons.
|
| solitude |
Appropriate when referring to the state of being alone without it necessarily being a negative experience. It often implies a peaceful or reflective state.
|
Examples of usage
- Respecting privacy is important in maintaining trust between individuals.
- People have the right to privacy in their own homes.
- In the digital age, online privacy is a major concern for many individuals.
- Privacy laws are designed to protect personal information from unauthorized access.
- Companies must ensure the privacy of their customers' data.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The concept of privacy dates back to ancient times, but the term itself became more defined in the 19th century with the rise of individual rights.
- The right to privacy was famously highlighted in a 1890 article by Louis Brandeis and Samuel Warren, which called for protection against invasions of privacy by the press.
- Privacy laws emerged in response to technological advancements, particularly with photography and eventually with the internet.
Legal Perspectives
- Many countries have laws protecting personal data, such as the GDPR in Europe, established to give individuals more control over their personal information.
- In the United States, the Fourth Amendment protects citizens from unreasonable searches, forming a foundational aspect of privacy rights.
- Some landmark court cases, like Roe v. Wade, have discussed privacy, showing its evolving nature in legal contexts.
Technology
- With the rise of social media, privacy concerns have surged as users share more personal information online.
- Encryption technology plays a vital role in protecting privacy, ensuring that communications and data remain confidential.
- Data breaches and leaks have made privacy a significant issue for individuals and organizations alike, prompting calls for stricter security measures.
Cultural Perspectives
- Different cultures have varying norms about privacy; for instance, some societies may value communal living, which can shift the boundaries of personal space.
- In many Western cultures, privacy is closely tied to personal identity and autonomy, while in some Eastern cultures, it may be less emphasized in favor of community.
Psychology
- Psychological studies suggest that a lack of privacy can lead to heightened anxiety and stress, emphasizing its importance for mental well-being.
- Privacy gives individuals a space to reflect and develop their identities away from societal expectations, which is crucial for personal growth.
- The fear of surveillance often alters behavior, creating what psychologists call the 'chilling effect,' in which individuals may refrain from expressing themselves.
Translations
Translations of the word "privacy" in other languages:
🇵🇹 privacidade
🇮🇳 गोपनीयता
🇩🇪 Privatsphäre
🇮🇩 privasi
🇺🇦 конфіденційність
🇵🇱 prywatność
🇯🇵 プライバシー
🇫🇷 confidentialité
🇪🇸 privacidad
🇹🇷 gizlilik
🇰🇷 프라이버시
🇸🇦 خصوصية
🇨🇿 soukromí
🇸🇰 súkromie
🇨🇳 隐私
🇸🇮 zasebnost
🇮🇸 einkalíf
🇰🇿 жеке өмір
🇬🇪 კონფიდენციალურობა
🇦🇿 məxfilik
🇲🇽 privacidad