A2noun1K

Personality

UK /["/ˌpɜːsəˈnæləti/"]/US /["/ˌpɜːrsəˈnæləti/"]/

Definition

the various aspects of a person’s character that combine to make them different from other people

In simple words: The way someone thinks, feels, and behaves.

Examples

  • Her personality is very cheerful and outgoing.
  • He has a unique personality that makes him stand out in a crowd.
  • Understanding your own personality can help you in making career choices.
  • Some people believe that personality is shaped by our experiences.
  • He is known for his strong personality and leadership skills.

Usage notes

Use 'personality' when discussing characteristics of people. It is neutral and appropriate in both casual and formal contexts, but avoid using it in highly technical or clinical discussions about psychology.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'personality' as 'person's reality' — it reflects their ways of being.

Collocations

  • bright
  • bubbly
  • extrovert
  • be
  • have
  • develop
  • type
  • characteristic
  • quirk
  • an aspect of somebody’s personality
  • a side of somebody’s personality
  • a clash of personalities
  • bright
  • bubbly
  • extrovert
  • be
  • have
  • develop
  • type
  • characteristic
  • quirk
  • an aspect of somebody’s personality
  • a side of somebody’s personality
  • a clash of personalities
  • famous
  • great
  • important
  • cult

Synonyms

  • celebrity
  • character

Antonyms

  • uniformity
  • sameness

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'personality' with 'character' — personality refers to traits, while character often refers to moral qualities.
  • Using 'personalities' to refer to someone's character traits in a general sense — 'personality' is typically used as a singular concept.