person
Meaning: An individual human being
Person refers to an individual human being. The plural is 'people' (informal) or 'persons' (formal/legal). 'In person' means physically present rather than via phone or video. 'First person', 'second person', and 'third person' are grammatical terms describing perspective.
Examples
- She's the nicest person I've ever met. 她是我见过的最好的人。Es la persona más amable que he conocido.彼女は私が会った中で一番素敵な人です。그녀는 제가 만난 사람 중 가장 좋은 사람입니다.
- This lift can hold a maximum of eight persons. 这部电梯最多可容纳八人。Este ascensor puede contener un máximo de ocho personas.このエレベーターは最大8名まで乗れます。이 엘리베이터는 최대 8명까지 탈 수 있습니다.
- You'll need to apply in person at the embassy. 您需要亲自到大使馆申请。Tendrás que solicitar en persona en la embajada.大使館で直接申請する必要があります。대사관에 직접 방문하여 신청해야 합니다.
Pronunciation
Usage Guide
Context: general
Tone: neutral
Origin & History
From Old French 'persone', from Latin 'persona' meaning 'mask used by an actor', hence 'a character in a drama', then 'an individual'. The Latin word may derive from Etruscan 'phersu' (mask). The theatrical origin explains why 'persona' still means a public role or image today.
Cultural Context
Era: Modern
Generation: All ages
Social background: Universal
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