Meaning & Definition of word "Personal"

Personal

/ˈpɜːrsənl/

adjective:

  • 1. Relating to or affecting a particular person rather than anyone else.
    • Example: She kept her personal life separate from her work life.
  • 2. Belonging to an individual; private.
    • Example: He shared his personal beliefs during the discussion.
  • 3. Of or concerning oneself; one's own.
    • Example: The personal impressions of the artist shaped the artwork.
  • 4. Relating to one's private rather than professional life.
    • Example: The company respects its employees' personal time and boundaries.

Etymology

Middle English, from Latin 'personalis', from 'persona' meaning 'person'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

personal space:

The physical space immediately surrounding someone, which they regard as psychologically theirs.

personal best:

The best performance or achievement an individual has ever attained.

personal touch:

A quality or character that makes something feel more distinctive and individualized.

Related Words

personality:

The combination of characteristics or qualities that form an individual's distinctive character.

persona:

The aspect of someone's character that is displayed to or perceived by others.

personhood:

The status of being a person.

Slang Meanings of personal

Meaning: Personal stuff

Example Sentence: He keeps all his personal stuff in his backpack.

Meaning: Personal life

Example Sentence: I try to keep my personal life separate from work.