person - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
person Word Meanings
- individuals of a community or group
- human beings in general
- the members of a particular nation or ethnic group
person Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
person Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈpɜː.sən/
US
/ˈpɝː.sən/
person Word Etymology
peo- = people; root from Old English 'persona' meaning 'person'. Historical origin: Latin → Old French → English. Memory image: Imagine a bustling village where every face tells a unique story, representing a community.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
Hands find a cup, I set it down and watch the crowd as a person steps forward. A quick move of my eyes, a tiny shift in posture, and the room feels different. I adjust my pace and keep my balance, letting the moment tell me who this person is in the flow of the day.
Real Context
Person is a basic English noun used for a single human being, regardless of age, gender, or background. It encompasses individuals in a group and is central to discussions of identity, roles, and rights. The singular form is person; the plural is people, except in formal or collective contexts. Etymology traces back to Latin persona, via Old French, yielding a long history of shifting meaning from mask to individual. A vivid memory image: imagine a bustling village where every face tells a unique story, representing a community. Learners often confuse it with 'people' when speaking generally; remember to use 'a person' for one, 'people' for more than one.
Usage Reminders
- - Use 'a person' for one individual and 'people' for more than one.
- - Avoid writing 'persons' in casual English; it's formal or legal.
- - Remember 'person' vs 'people' when talking about humanity vs populations.
- - Be careful with pronouns: after 'a person', use 'he/she' or gender-neutral 'they'.
- - Pair with common phrases like 'the person in charge' or 'a famous person'.
Common Misconceptions
- People is the plural form; don't use 'people' for one person.
- 'Persons' exists but is rare and formal; use 'people' in everyday English.
- A person refers to one individual; 'people' refers to more than one or humanity in general.
- Don't treat 'person' as a gendered term like 'man' or 'woman'.
- The noun 'person' takes a singular verb: 'The person is here.'
Thinking Differences
English treats a 'person' as a single human being and contrasts it with 'people' for plural or group-based references; learners often overgeneralize to 'persons' or misapply plural forms.
Learning Tips
- Remember the base rule: one person, many people.
- Think of 'persons' as legal/very formal only.
- Use pronouns after 'a person' (he/she/they).
- Practice with common collocations: the person in charge, a good person.
- Contrast topics: 'a person from a country' vs 'the people of a country'.
- Be mindful of non-count references: 'the people' can refer to a nation or population.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the best definition of the word 'person'?
A.A group of buildings or structures
B.A nonliving object used for tasks
C.A human being regarded as an individual
D.A specific type of machine
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'person' correctly?
A.She placed the keys on the person.
B.There are five person waiting outside.
C.A kind person helped me carry the groceries.
D.The recipe called for two person of sugar.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar in meaning to 'person'?
A.organization
B.individual
C.place
D.object
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word best represents an opposite or contrasting concept to 'person'?
A.thing
B.community
C.concept
D.location
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where this word would be appropriate? (Read the sentences and choose the best context)
A.Someone returned the lost wallet to the police.
B.The coffee machine broke down this morning.
C.The park is filled with trees and benches.
D.The report summarizes the company's quarterly earnings.
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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