Dictionary-enhanced word family
Word Forms of “Person”
One human; a single individual.
Word Family of Person
What is the noun of person? — people, persons (formal plural)
What is the adjective of person? — personal
What is the adverb of person? — personally
How to Use Each Word Form in a Sentence
- There is one person waiting at the door. A1
- She is a kind person who helps others. A2
- Each person in the organization must complete the safety training. B1
Word Form Patterns for Person
-al
Adds **-al** to form an adjective meaning relating to. Example: person → personal.
-ly
Adds **-ly** to make an adverb describing how an action happens. Example: person → personally.
Origin and Word Formation of Person
From Latin persona, possibly from Etruscan phersu, 'mask'.
Common Word Form Mistakes with Person
Wrong: There are five persons in the room.
Correct: There are five people in the room.
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.
Use 'whom' as object of verb 'like' (though modern speech often uses 'who').
Frequently Asked Questions About Word Forms of Person
What are the word forms of “person”?
The confirmed forms are shown in the word family cards above. Missing parts of speech are hidden instead of filled with placeholder text.
What part of speech is “person”?
“person” is primarily a noun. Some forms above show how the same root works as other parts of speech.
Where does “person” come from?
From Latin persona, possibly from Etruscan phersu, 'mask'.