Meaning & Definition of word "Personally"

Personally

/ˈpɜːrsənəli/

adverb:

  • 1. In a personal manner; as a person rather than as a representative of a group or organization.
    • Example: I personally believe that honesty is the best policy.
  • 2. With reference to oneself; in one's own opinion or as one sees it.
    • Example: She personally disagrees with the decision made by the board.
  • 3. In one's own person; not through another.
    • Example: He wanted to meet the client personally to establish a clearer connection.
  • 4. Used to emphasize one's individual viewpoint or experience.
    • Example: Personally, I found the book to be quite enlightening.

Etymology

Derived from Middle French 'personnel', from Latin 'personalis', meaning 'of or belonging to a person'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

personally speaking:

Expressing one's personal opinion.

personally responsible:

Being directly accountable for something.

take it personally:

To interpret something as a personal attack or offense.

Related Words

person:

An individual human being.

personality:

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

personable:

Having a pleasant appearance and manner.

Slang Meanings of personally

Meaning: Just my two cents.

Example Sentence: Personally, I think that just my two cents.

Meaning: In my humble opinion (IMHO).

Example Sentence: IMHO, the movie was overrated.