Particular

Definition

Particular is an adjective and a noun. As an adjective, it describes something specific, unique, or noteworthy. As a noun, it refers to a specific detail or an individual item within a group.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /pərˈtɪk.jə.lɚ/, /pɑːrˈtɪk.jə.lɚ/
• Respelling: pər-TIK-yuh-lur, par-TIK-yuh-lur

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /pəˈtɪk.jʊ.lə/, /pɑːˈtɪk.jʊ.lə/
• Respelling: puh-TIK-yuh-luh, pah-TIK-yuh-luh

Etymology

The word "particular" originates from the Latin "particularis," meaning "pertaining to a small part," derived from "particula," meaning "a little part." It entered Middle English through Old French in the 14th century.

Derivatives

• Particularly (adverb)
• Particularity (noun)
• Particularize (verb)
• Unparticular (adjective)
• Particularism (noun)

Synonyms

• Specific
• Distinct
• Detailed

Antonyms

• General
• Broad
• Vague

Usage

The term "particular" is widely used to indicate specificity or detail. For example, "She has a particular interest in history," or "The instructions were clear on that particular point."

Related Terms

• Detail: An individual feature or fact.
• Specificity: The quality of being clear or exact.
• Individual: A single, distinct item or person.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Referring to a specific or distinct item or instance:
  • Example: "She focused on a particular aspect of the problem."
• Showing special attention or care:
  • Example: "He is very particular about his appearance."
• Exceptional or noteworthy:
  • Example: "The meal was nothing particular, but the service was excellent."

Noun

• An individual fact or item within a larger context:
  • Example: "The report lacked important particulars about the incident."