Translation guide
In Japanese, the concept of a 'private lesson' is most commonly expressed with 個人レッスン (kojin ressun) or プライベートレッスン (puraibēto ressun). The choice depends on context, and there are also native Japanese terms for one-on-one teaching.
To refer to a lesson given to a single student, as opposed to a group class.
The most common and neutral term for a private lesson, used in various contexts like music, sports, or academics.
ピアノの個人レッスンを受けています。
I'm taking private piano lessons.
Also very common, often used interchangeably with 個人レッスン. Slightly more casual or marketing-oriented.
英会話のプライベートレッスンを探しています。
I'm looking for private English conversation lessons.
Emphasizes the one-on-one nature. Common in sports, fitness, and language learning.
マンツーマンレッスンで集中的に学びたい。
I want to learn intensively with one-on-one lessons.
A more formal or traditional term, often used for private tutoring by a teacher, especially in academic subjects.
数学の個人教授を頼んだ。
I asked for private tutoring in math.
Specifically for academic subjects, often outside of school, with a tutor.
Refers to a private tutor who comes to the student's home. Very common for school subjects.
家庭教師をつけて英語を勉強している。
I'm studying English with a private tutor.
Literally 'individual instruction', often used by cram schools or tutoring services. Can be one-on-one or small group.
個別指導の塾に通っています。
I go to a cram school that offers individual instruction.
For traditional Japanese arts, crafts, or skills where a master teaches a disciple.
Used for private practice or training in traditional arts like martial arts, tea ceremony, or dance.
茶道の個人稽古を申し込んだ。
I signed up for private tea ceremony lessons.
Both are widely used and understood. 個人レッスン is slightly more formal and emphasizes 'individual' vs. group. プライベートレッスン sounds a bit more modern and is often used in advertisements. In everyday conversation, they are interchangeable.
The direct translation '私的なレッスン' is not used and sounds unnatural. Stick to the established terms above.