What does individual mean?
“Individual” refers to one person, thing, or unit considered apart from others, while also functioning as an adjective describing something intended for, relating to, or distinct from the rest of a group. It is common in discussions of rights, responsibility, freedom, and personal choice: an individual may be described as having individual rights or making an individual decision. The noun is usually neutral and can simply emphasize that a person or thing is being considered on its own. In political and legal contexts, the word can also contrast individual interests and freedoms with collective or institutional ones. Its adjective use is similarly broad, extending from individual insurance to individual members of a group. Historically, “individual” also meant a distinctive or exceptional person, although that sense is now uncommon outside older or specialized writing.
A single person or thing, especially when considered separately from others of the same kind.
"Every individual has the right to make an informed decision."
Often used in legal, political, and social contexts to emphasize personal rights, responsibility, or distinctiveness.
Relating to or intended for one person rather than a group; distinct or separate from other members of a group.
"The athlete must follow an individual training programme."
The phrase “individual rights” is especially common in legal and political contexts.
The plural is used for multiple people or entities considered separately.
"The individuals responsible for the project were praised for their leadership."
The word “individual” comes from Latin for “undivided,” yet modern English uses it for one person standing apart from the crowd.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of individual
“Individual” comes from Latin individuus, formed from in- meaning “not” and dividere meaning “to divide,” with the original sense “undivided.” English borrowed the word in the 16th century, initially in the sense of something indivisible or an individual person or thing. The modern emphasis on a single person separated from a group developed as the noun and adjective uses became established.
Related word forms
How individual is actually used
In modern general use, “individual” is neutral when referring to a person, but it can sometimes suggest emphasis on personal rights or responsibility. In legal and political contexts, it often contrasts with collective, institutional, or group-based approaches. The older sense meaning “a distinctive or exceptional person” is now less common.
Easily confused with individual
“Individual” is usually a noun or adjective, while “individually” is an adverb meaning separately or one at a time.
“Individual” emphasizes distinction from others, whereas “personal” primarily concerns what belongs to or concerns one particular person.