Translation guide
The English phrase "private business" can refer to a personal matter not meant for public discussion, or to a privately owned commercial enterprise. This guide covers both meanings and shows how to express them naturally in Japanese.
Referring to something private, personal, or not for others to know; often used when declining to answer a question.
A natural, neutral way to say 'a personal matter'. Use this when you want to indicate something is private without being rude.
それは個人的なことなので、お答えできません。
That's a personal matter, so I can't answer.
Using the loanword 'private' sounds slightly more casual/modern. Common in spoken Japanese.
Referring to a business that is privately owned, not by the government.
The direct translation 'プライベートビジネス' is not commonly used in Japanese and may cause confusion. Use the options above depending on the intended meaning.
Please don't touch on private matters.
A formal, somewhat stiff term for 'personal affairs'. Often used in official contexts or written language.
私事で恐縮ですが、来月退職いたします。
I apologize for bringing up a personal matter, but I will be resigning next month.
The standard term for a private company or enterprise, as opposed to a public or government-run entity.
彼は民間企業に勤めています。
He works for a private company.
Literally 'private enterprise', often used in economic or legal contexts. Slightly more formal than 民間企業.
私企業の役割が増大している。
The role of private enterprise is increasing.
Often used as a prefix meaning 'private' or 'non-governmental', as in 民間企業 (private company) or 民間団体 (private organization).
民間の力を活用する。
Utilize the power of the private sector.