Personal
/ˈpɜːrsənəl/
Definitions
2 meaningsBelonging to or concerning a particular person; private.
/ˈpɜːrsənəl/
Belonging to a particular person; private.
This is my personal space.
💡 Simply: Something that's personal is all about *you* or one specific person. Like, your personal phone is the one you use to text your friends. It's not shared!
👶 For kids: Something that belongs to you, like your toys or your special blanket.
More Examples
She shared some personal information with me.
He has a personal connection to the story.
How It's Used
"She keeps a personal diary."
"He took a personal day off from work."
Relating to the character, qualities, or actions of a particular individual.
/ˈpɜːrsənəl/
Relating to the character or actions of a particular person.
He has a personal interest in the matter.
💡 Simply: This kind of personal is about *who you are* or what *you do*. Like, someone might say you have a 'personal style' if you dress in a way that's unique to you, or if you take a joke too personally, it's because it's aimed at your character or actions.
👶 For kids: About you and how you act or what you like.
More Examples
She has a personal stake in the outcome.
Don't take it personally.
How It's Used
"He took the criticism personally."
"A personal code of conduct."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
take something personally
To be offended or upset by something that is said or done, especially when it is not intended to be offensive.
"I didn't mean to upset you; don't take it personally."
personal touch
A quality or element that is individual or private and adds warmth, consideration, or sensitivity to something.
"The hotel provides personalized service with a personal touch."
From Latin *personalis*, relating to a person. It entered English in the 14th century, initially referring to something belonging to a person.
Initially used in legal and religious contexts, referring to property or actions associated with an individual.
Memory tip
Think of the word 'person' – something personal belongs directly to a person.
Word Origin
"person, individual"