It is common for people to use the terms “person” and “individual” interchangeably, as if they have the same meaning. However, there are differences between the two terms. The concept of a person is rooted in the Greek word “persona,” meaning the mask of an actor. A person is a living entity that walks, thinks, and is a social being who communicates with others and shares feelings.
Key Takeaways
- A person is a human being that thinks and walks.
- Individuals are persons with unique characteristics within a crowd or society.
- The term “individual” is often used to emphasize the unique properties or individualism of a person.
The concept of an individual arises when we consider people within a society, each displaying different characteristics. A crowd is composed of individuals, but each individual is also a person. The word “individual” is used to convey the unique properties or characteristics of a person, often when describing someone well-known or a celebrity.
In summary, while the words “person” and “individual” are often used interchangeably, they do have different meanings. A person is a human being that thinks and walks, while an individual is a person in a crowd with unique characteristics.
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