in camera
Definition
Adverb 1. In private; in a closed, confidential setting: Refers to something done or discussed away from public view, typically in a judge's private chambers or a similarly secluded and confidential environment. - The judge decided to hear the sensitive testimony in camera. - The board members met in camera to discuss the personnel matter.
Usage Notes
- Legal Context: This term is most commonly used in legal proceedings. It describes a hearing or meeting that is held privately, not in open court, often to protect sensitive information (e.g., national security, trade secrets, or the identity of a vulnerable witness).
- General/Formal Context: It can be used more broadly in formal English to mean "in secret" or "privately," though this usage is less frequent.
Examples
- Legal Example:
- Due to the nature of the evidence involving a minor, the trial proceeded in camera.
- General/Formal Example:
- The committee conducted its final deliberations in camera before announcing the winner.
Advanced Usage
- "an in camera session": A private meeting or hearing.
- The arbitration featured several in camera sessions to review confidential financial documents.
Variants and Related Words
- Ex parte (adj/adv): A legal term for proceedings brought by one party in the absence of another. While also often private, it has a distinct legal meaning from .
- In chambers: A near-synonym in legal contexts, meaning in the judge's private office rather than in the open courtroom.
Synonyms
- Privately
- In private
- Behind closed doors
- Confidentially
Antonyms
- In open court
- Publicly
- Openly
Adverb
-
kept private or confined to those intimately concerned
-
it was discussed privately between the two men
-
privately, she thought differently
-
some member of his own party hoped privately for his defeat
-
he was questioned in private
-
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