Definition of Person
Quick Meaning of Person
One human; a single individual.
Detailed Definition of Person
A human being; an individual man, woman, or child.
How to Pronounce Person
Stress pattern: Oo (2-syllable word).
Tip: Rhymes with 'curtain'. Stress first syllable: PER-sun.
Origin and Etymology of Person
From Latin persona, possibly from Etruscan phersu, 'mask'.
How to Use Person in a Sentence
Each example shows “person” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“There is one person waiting at the door.”
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“She is a kind person who helps others.”
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“Each person in the organization must complete the safety training.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Person
Common Synonyms for Person
Smart Synonyms for Person — When to Use Each
- individual
- emphasizes uniqueness or separateness
- human
- stresses being human vs other beings
- someone
- more casual when identity is unknown
Common Collocations with Person
These phrases pair with “person” in everyday English:
- a kind person
- a good person
- young person
- in person
- per person
Common Mistakes When Using Person
Even fluent speakers slip up with “person”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: There are five persons in the room.
- ✓ Correct: There are five people in the room.
- Why: Use 'people' for plural; 'persons' is formal/legal only.
- ✗ Wrong: He is a very friendly person who people like.
- ✓ Correct: He is a very friendly person whom people like.
- Why: Use 'whom' as object of verb 'like' (though modern speech often uses 'who').
Other Forms of Person
- Noun: people, persons (formal plural)
- Adjective: personal
- Adverb: personally
Frequently Asked Questions About Person
What is the meaning of "Person"?
One human; a single individual.
How do you pronounce "Person"?
The IPA is /ˈpɜːrsən/. Rhymes with 'curtain'. Stress first syllable: PER-sun.
What part of speech is "Person"?
"Person" is a noun at A1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Person"?
Common synonyms include individual, human, someone.
How do you use "Person" in a sentence?
For example: "There is one person waiting at the door."