A2adjective 1K

Human

UK /["/ˈhjuːmən/"]/ US /["/ˈhjuːmən/"]/ Pronunciation

Definition

of or connected with people rather than animals, machines or gods

Listen to definition

In simple words: A person or someone who is alive.

Examples

• The human spirit is capable of great things.
• Understanding human emotions can be complex.
• It is important to treat all human beings with respect.
• The scientist studied human behavior for many years.
• Human rights are fundamental to our society.

Usage notes

The word 'human' is used in many contexts to refer to people, their qualities, or their species. It is appropriate in both spoken and written English. It is not typically used in a humorous or sarcastic context.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'human' as 'who-man' – it’s all about the people!

Collocations

• human rights
• human behavior
• human nature

Synonyms

• person
• individual
• human being
• mortal
• man

Antonyms

• animal
• machine
• robot

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'humane', which refers to being kind or compassionate.
• Using 'human' to describe animals, which is incorrect.
• Mispronouncing as 'hue-man'.