a particular individual

USAGE SUMMARY

"a particular individual" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used when you want to specify a specific person rather than a general group of people. For example: - The detective was looking for a particular individual who had been seen at the scene of the crime. - The university is seeking a particular individual with expertise in biology to join their research team. - The artist's paintings are highly sought after by a particular individual who collects portraits of famous figures.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The agency spokesman said they cannot identify a particular individual.

The New York Times

"We have received no instructions to let off a particular individual or group of people".

The Guardian

"Whether it works for a particular individual is up to them," he said.

The New York Times

(Although she may want to examine the feelings that draw her to a group rather than to a particular individual).

The New York Times - Magazine

You never know how he will respond to a particular individual in a particular society, even in an Islamic society.

The Guardian - Books

But, as tests improve, it will become possible to predict whether or not a particular individual is at risk.

The Economist

Because hedge fund firms are so often closely identified with a particular individual, transitions can be rocky.

The New York Times

The hallucinatory effects vary greatly among individuals and even for a particular individual from one drug experience to the next.

Britannica

More specifically, section 8, which allows interception without the identification of a particular individual or premises where the origin or destination of the communication is outside the UK.

The Guardian

The police argue that they have a policy of being unable to confirm nor deny whether a particular individual has been an undercover officer.

The Guardian

Anonymous leaks to media organizations, typically citing an unnamed American, Yemeni or Pakistani official, are the only acknowledgements that the strikes actually occur, or target a particular individual.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a particular individual" when you need to emphasize that you are referring to one specific person and not just anyone in a general group. This phrasing can add a touch of formality and precision to your writing.

Common error

While "a particular individual" is a correct phrase, avoid overusing it in informal contexts. Simpler alternatives like "a specific person" or even just using the person's name can make your writing sound more natural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a particular individual" functions as a noun phrase, specifically as a determiner phrase modifying the noun "individual". As Ludwig AI explains, it serves to specify a single person rather than a general group. The phrase is commonly used to narrow the focus to a specific subject.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a particular individual" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression in English, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It functions as a noun phrase to specify a single person, often in situations requiring precision. While slightly more formal than alternatives like "a specific person", it's versatile enough for use in various contexts, including news, science, and encyclopedic content. When writing, remember that overuse in informal settings might sound unnatural. Consider alternative phrasing such as "a specific person" or directly referencing the individual by name to maintain clarity and appropriateness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a specific person

Replaces "individual" with the more common term "person", slightly altering the formality.

a certain person

Uses "certain" to emphasize the specificity, but can sometimes imply a lack of detailed knowledge.

a given individual

Emphasizes that the individual has been pre-selected or specified beforehand.

a designated person

Suggests the individual has been officially appointed or selected for a role.

a named individual

Highlights that the person's identity is known and specified by name.

a selected individual

Implies a choice or selection process has occurred.

a distinct person

Emphasizes the uniqueness and separateness of the individual.

a singular person

Highlights the unique and exceptional qualities of the person.

an identified individual

Emphasizes the fact that the individual has been recognized and their identity is known.

a respective individual

Often used when referring to different individuals within a group, each considered separately.

FAQs

How can I use "a particular individual" in a sentence?

You can use "a particular individual" when you want to specify a certain person. For example, "The investigation focused on "a particular individual" suspected of fraud".

What's the difference between "a particular individual" and "a specific person"?

While both phrases refer to a certain person, "a particular individual" is slightly more formal. "A specific person" is generally suitable for everyday conversation and writing, while the former might be preferred in more formal or official contexts.

What are some alternatives to using "a particular individual"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "a certain person", "a specific person", or simply use the person's name if known. The best alternative depends on the level of formality you want to achieve.

Is it incorrect to use "a particular person" instead of "a particular individual"?

No, using "a particular person" is not incorrect. It is a perfectly acceptable and often more common alternative. "Individual" is slightly more formal, but both are grammatically sound.