Individuals
ˌɪndɪˈvɪdʒuəlz
Definitions
A single human being, separate from a group.
ˌɪndɪˈvɪdʒuəl
A single human being, as distinct from a group or class.
The survey collected data from a large number of individuals.
💡 Simply: Imagine a classroom: each student is an individual. They each have their own name, thoughts, and ideas, even though they are all in the same place. It's like saying 'one person' instead of 'the whole group'.
👶 For kids: One person all by themselves.
More Examples
It's important to respect the rights of every individual.
Each individual in the team contributed to the project's success.
How It's Used
"Each individual has unique needs and preferences."
"The study focused on the behavior of individuals within a group setting."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
An individual of means
A wealthy person.
"He was an individual of means, known for his philanthropy."
From Middle English *individual* (singular), from Latin *individuus* ("indivisible"), from *in-* ("not") + *dividuum* (neuter of *dividuus*, "divisible").
The term 'individual' has been used since the 17th century, and its concept of a distinct human being became central during the Enlightenment.
Memory tip
Think of an 'individual' as a single, independent person standing on their own, unlike a crowd.
Word Origin
"indivisible"