particular
adjective
UK/pəˈtɪk.jə.lər/US/pɚˈtɪk.jə.lɚ/
special or specific; distinct from others in a group or category
Example Sentences
She has a particular interest in Renaissance art and often visits galleries featuring that period.
This assignment requires a particular set of skills, including advanced coding, data visualization, and machine learning.
He always pays particular attention to detail in his designs, ensuring even the smallest elements are perfectly aligned.
Is there a particular reason why you arrived late to the meeting?
We must ensure each item meets the client’s particular specifications before final delivery.
When traveling abroad, some foods require particular preparation methods to ensure food safety and properly respect local culinary traditions, highlighting how cultural nuances can shape the way meals are prepared and enjoyed.
His teacher praised him for his particular style of writing, noting how the clarity and fluidity of his prose engaged readers and truly set him apart from his peers in class.
Many people find that a particular environment, such as a quiet library or a cozy coffee shop, can greatly enhance their focus and productivity compared to a noisy, bustling office.
Thesaurus
Synonyms
Antonyms
How to Use
Referring to a specific item, detail, or individual among others.The word 'particular' functions primarily as an adjective and a noun. As an adjective, it is used to specify a distinct item or detail within a larger group, such as in the sentence: 'She has a particular interest in marine biology.' It emphasizes the uniqueness or specificity of the subject. As a noun, 'particular' refers to a specific detail or aspect, for example: 'He paid attention to every particular of the contract.' Additionally, 'particular' can be used in phrases like 'in particular' to highlight something specific, as in: 'I enjoyed the movie, especially the cinematography in particular.' Understanding how to use 'particular' effectively allows for precise and clear communication, ensuring that the intended specificity is conveyed without ambiguity. It is versatile in both formal and informal contexts, making it a valuable word for detailed descriptions and specifications.
Alternatives
Alternatives to the word 'particular' include 'specific', 'distinct', 'individual', 'unique', 'exact', 'precise', 'special', 'definite', 'certain', and 'singular'. Each alternative offers a slightly different nuance: 'specific' emphasizes clear definition, 'distinct' highlights clear differences, 'individual' refers to single entities, 'unique' denotes one-of-a-kind qualities, 'exact' implies accuracy, 'precise' focuses on exactness, 'special' conveys importance or uniqueness, 'definite' suggests certainty, 'certain' implies assurance, and 'singular' emphasizes uniqueness. Choosing the right alternative depends on the context and the exact shade of meaning you wish to convey, allowing for flexibility in expression while maintaining clarity and specificity in communication.
Writing
When writing, using 'particular' can enhance the precision and clarity of your descriptions. It helps in specifying exact details, making your writing more informative and engaging. For instance, instead of saying 'a problem,' you can say 'a particular problem,' which provides the reader with a clearer understanding of the issue at hand. Additionally, 'particular' can be used to draw attention to specific aspects that are important for the narrative or argument, thereby strengthening your points. It also aids in avoiding vagueness, ensuring that your audience comprehends the exact elements you are referring to. Incorporating 'particular' thoughtfully can add depth and specificity to your writing, making your arguments more compelling and your descriptions more vivid.
Casual Conversation
In daily conversations, 'particular' is useful for highlighting specific details or preferences without needing lengthy explanations. For example, you might say, 'I’m looking for a particular book,' to indicate a specific title you're interested in. It can also be used to express preferences, such as, 'I’m not particular about the restaurant, as long as the food is good,' which conveys flexibility while still indicating a criterion. Using 'particular' in casual dialogue helps in making your statements more precise and your intentions clearer, facilitating better understanding and more effective communication with others. It allows you to pinpoint exact preferences or details seamlessly within everyday interactions.
Etymology
The word 'particular' originates from the Latin 'particularis,' which means 'of a part,' derived from 'particula,' meaning 'a small part.' It entered the English language in the late Middle Ages, initially conveying the sense of something being detailed or specific to a part. Over time, its usage expanded to describe anything that is distinct, precise, or uniquely defined. The evolution of 'particular' reflects its ability to convey specificity and distinction, making it an essential term in both everyday language and specialized contexts. Its roots in Latin underscore its foundational role in the development of precise and detailed expression in English, highlighting its enduring significance in communication.