私語

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 私語 is read しご and refers to side conversations unrelated to an activity such as a class, exam, or lecture.
• Basic usage: In 試験中の私語は禁止されている。, side conversation is prohibited during the exam.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Not necessarily a secret conversation
  • 私語 emphasizes side talk unrelated to the main activity, not secrecy. 客席の私語 likewise means chatter among the audience.