private-sector

UK: ˈpraɪvət ˈsɛktə | US: ˈpraɪvət ˈsɛktər

Definition

  1. adj. relating to or involving businesses and industries not owned or controlled by the government

  2. n. the part of an economy that consists of privately owned enterprises

Structure
private <personal, from Latin *privatus*>sector <division, from Latin *sector*>
Etymology

The term combines "private," derived from Latin privatus (meaning "set apart, individual"), with "sector," from Latin sector (meaning "cutter" or "divider"). "Private" originally referred to personal or non-state matters, while "sector" denoted a segment of society or economy. The compound emerged in the 20th century to contrast government-run ("public-sector") and independently owned economic activities.

Examples

  1. Private-sector companies often drive innovation more efficiently than state-owned ones.

  2. She transitioned from a public to a private-sector job for higher pay.

  3. The report highlights private-sector investment in renewable energy.

  4. Critics argue that private-sector healthcare prioritizes profit over patient care.

  5. The government partnered with the private-sector to rebuild infrastructure.