individual
A single person as distinct from a group, class, or family. It is often used to highlight one person's unique character or their specific role within a society.
Examples
3 of 5Every individual in the class had a different idea for the project.
Every individual in the class had a different idea for the project.
The law is designed to protect the rights of the individual.
The law is designed to protect the rights of the individual.
He's a very interesting individual with lots of stories.
He's a very interesting individual with lots of stories.
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of 'in-divide-ual'—an individual is one person who cannot be divided into pieces.
Quick Quiz
The rights of the _______ must be respected by the government.
Correct!
The correct answer is: individual
Examples
Every individual in the class had a different idea for the project.
everydayEvery individual in the class had a different idea for the project.
The law is designed to protect the rights of the individual.
formalThe law is designed to protect the rights of the individual.
He's a very interesting individual with lots of stories.
informalHe's a very interesting individual with lots of stories.
Researchers studied each individual over a period of six months.
academicResearchers studied each individual over a period of six months.
Our goal is to provide a service that meets the needs of every individual.
businessOur goal is to provide a service that meets the needs of every individual.
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
as an individual
as an individual
the rights of the individual
the rights of the individual
respect for the individual
respect for the individual
Often Confused With
'Person' is the standard everyday word, while 'individual' is more formal or technical, often used in legal or scientific contexts.
Usage Notes
Use this word when you want to distinguish one person from a group. It sounds more formal and objective than 'person'.
Common Mistakes
Avoid using 'individual' in very casual settings like 'I met a nice individual at the party,' as it sounds overly clinical.
Memory Tip
Think of 'in-divide-ual'—an individual is one person who cannot be divided into pieces.
Word Origin
Derived from the Latin 'individualis', meaning indivisible or single.
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
Western societies often place a high value on the needs and rights of the individual over the group.
Quick Quiz
The rights of the _______ must be respected by the government.
Correct!
The correct answer is: individual
Related Grammar Rules
Related Phrases
Related Vocabulary
Related Words
complement
A2A thing that completes or brings to perfection something else. In grammar, it refers to a word or phrase that follows a verb and provides more information about the subject or object.
compound
A2Describes something that is made of two or more separate parts or elements joined together. It is often used to talk about words, sentences, or chemical substances that have multiple components.
conceive
A2To form an idea, plan, or concept in the mind. It is also the medical term used to describe when a woman becomes pregnant.
confer
A2To discuss something with other people in order to reach a decision or exchange ideas. It can also mean to officially give an honor, title, or degree to someone.
conform
A2To behave according to rules, standards, or what is expected by a group of people. It means to fit in or act in a way that matches others.
consecutive
A2Following one after another in a continuous series without any breaks. It describes things that happen in a logical order, like numbers (1, 2, 3) or days (Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday).
consistency
A2Consistency is the quality of always acting or behaving in the same way. it also describes how thick or smooth a liquid or substance is.
disclude
B1Describing a state where someone or something is left out, omitted, or not allowed to participate in a group or activity. It refers to the condition of being kept apart from a whole or a set.
antiformous
B1Describes a shape or structure that is curved or folded upwards like an arch. It is most often used in geology and geometry to describe a convex surface.
interspect
B1Describing a person who is thoughtful and focused on their own internal thoughts and feelings. It refers to the act of looking inward to examine one's own emotions and motives rather than focusing on external things.
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