Cool MatePersonal
UK /["/ˈpɜːsənl/"]/US /["/ˈpɜːrsənl/"]/
Definition
your own; not belonging to or connected with anyone else
In simple words: Relating to someone as an individual, not general or public.
Examples
- This diary is for my personal thoughts and feelings.
- She has a personal style that is unique to her.
- He shared some personal details during the interview.
- It's important to keep your personal information safe online.
- They had a personal meeting to discuss their plans.
Usage notes
Use 'personal' when discussing feelings, opinions, or information related to an individual. Avoid in formal contexts where privacy is irrelevant.
Grammar pattern
personal + noun
Memory hint
Think of 'person' + 'al' — something that belongs to a person.
Collocations
- be
- feel
- seem
- deeply
- intensely
- purely
- be
- feel
- seem
- deeply
- intensely
- purely
- be
- feel
- seem
- deeply
- intensely
- purely
- be
- feel
- seem
- deeply
- intensely
- purely
Synonyms
- individual
- private
- intimate
- subjective
- unique
Antonyms
- public
- general
Common mistakes
- Confused with 'personnel', which refers to staff or employees.
- Using 'personal' to describe something general or public.
- Mixing up 'personal' and 'private' regarding confidentiality.