private parts: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B1Informal, Euphemistic
Quick answer
What does “private parts” mean?
The external genital organs.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The external genital organs.
A euphemistic term for the genitals, used especially when speaking to or about children.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Usage and connotations are very similar in both varieties. 'Bits' is a common informal UK alternative.
Connotations
Childish, medical-informal, euphemistic. Not considered coarse or vulgar.
Frequency
Common in both varieties, especially in caretaker-to-child speech.
Grammar
How to Use “private parts” in a Sentence
[possessive adjective] + private parts (e.g., his private parts)the + private partsVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “private parts” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- N/A
American English
- N/A
adverb
British English
- N/A
American English
- N/A
adjective
British English
- N/A
American English
- N/A
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Rare; 'genitals' or 'genitalia' are preferred in formal contexts.
Everyday
Used in informal, family, or medical-advice contexts.
Technical
Not used; specific anatomical terms are preferred.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “private parts”
- Using as a singular noun (*'private part').
- Using in formal writing.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, it is a standard, inoffensive euphemism, especially suitable for talking to children.
No, it is too informal and euphemistic. Use 'genitals' or 'genitalia' for academic or formal writing.
Yes, it is a fixed plural noun phrase. 'Private part' is incorrect in this meaning.
'Bits' is a very common informal British alternative (e.g., 'your bits').
The external genital organs.
Private parts: in British English it is pronounced /ˌpraɪvət ˈpɑːts/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌpraɪvət ˈpɑːrts/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Keep your private parts to yourself.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a PRIVATE party where only special PARTS of you are invited.
Conceptual Metaphor
PRIVACY IS A PHYSICAL COVERING (e.g., 'cover your private parts').
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'private parts' MOST appropriately used?