Individually
/ˌɪndɪˈvɪdʒuəli/
Definitions
2 meaningsIn a way that relates to or affects a single person or thing; one by one; separately.
/ˌɪndɪˈvɪdʒuəli/
One by one; separately
The tests were graded individually, not as a group.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're handing out birthday presents. Giving them out individually means each friend gets their own present, one at a time, not all at once! Like when you take turns on the swing set – you go individually.
👶 For kids: Doing something one at a time. Like giving each kid a cookie one by one!
More Examples
Please address the envelopes individually.
Each student will present their project individually.
How It's Used
"The teacher graded the papers individually."
"Each employee was interviewed individually."
"We spoke to each student individually about their concerns."
With consideration for the characteristics or needs of each person or thing; one at a time with special consideration.
/ˌɪndɪˈvɪdʒuəli/
With regard to the specific person or thing
The doctor treated each patient individually, according to their specific needs.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're planning a party. You're choosing presents and food individually for each person. You're thinking about what they like!
👶 For kids: Doing something that is special for only one person or thing.
More Examples
The teacher assessed each student individually.
The tailor designed the suits individually for each client.
How It's Used
"The therapist addressed each patient's issues individually."
"Students were given assignments tailored to them individually."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
treated individually
To be given special care or attention separately.
"Each patient is treated individually by the doctor."
tailored individually
To be specifically crafted or designed separately.
"The plans were tailored individually to each person's needs."
From 'individual' (from Latin 'individuus,' meaning 'indivisible') + '-ly' (forming adverbs). The word developed to describe something done by a single person or thing, separate from others, or considered separately.
The term 'individually' has been in use since the 17th century, paralleling the development of concepts of individual rights and responsibilities.
Memory tip
Think of an individual person. Doing something individually means each person is handled separately.
Word Origin
"indivisible"