What is the Meaning of 'Personally'?
The adverb "personally" describes actions, thoughts, or characteristics that are connected to an individual person, often emphasizing a subjective viewpoint or an aspect of their personality.
Understanding 'Personally': Key Meanings and Usage
"Personally" is a versatile adverb that primarily functions in two main ways, allowing individuals to express their unique perspectives or describe attributes related to their character.
1. Referring to One's Character or Personality
One common use of "personally" is to describe someone's inherent traits or how they are as an individual. It often pertains to their character, temperament, or the way they interact with the world. This meaning highlights aspects that are intrinsic to a person's being.
- Meaning: As a person; in terms of one's personality or character.
- Example: She is personally attractive but not very trustworthy. (Here, "personally attractive" describes her individual appeal.)
- Other Examples:
- He is personally responsible for the success of the project.
- The manager handles all staff complaints personally, demonstrating their hands-on approach.
- Her personally challenging experiences shaped her resilient outlook.
2. Expressing One's Own Opinion or Involvement
Another significant application of "personally" is to indicate that a statement, feeling, or action originates from oneself, or that it is something one experiences or believes as an individual. It serves to emphasize a subjective viewpoint or a direct, individual connection to a matter.
- Meaning: For oneself; as far as one is concerned; from one's own perspective.
- Example: Personally, I don't want to go. (This clarifies that it is the speaker's individual preference.)
- Other Examples:
- Personally, I believe that sustainability is crucial for the future.
- The CEO addressed each employee's concerns personally.
- He took the criticism personally, feeling hurt by the comments.
- Speaking personally, I find the new policy quite effective.
Distinguishing 'Personal' from 'Personally'
While both words relate to an individual, 'personal' is an adjective and 'personally' is an adverb. Understanding this difference is key to correct usage.
| Term | Part of Speech | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Personal | Adjective | Relating to or affecting a particular person; individual. | That is my personal opinion. (Describes the opinion.) |
| Personally | Adverb | In a personal manner; by oneself; concerning oneself. | Personally, I agree with you. (Modifies the verb 'agree' and emphasizes the speaker's viewpoint.) |
Practical Tips for Using 'Personally'
Using "personally" effectively can add clarity and emphasis to your communication.
- To Emphasize Opinion: Use "personally" when you want to make it clear that you are expressing your individual viewpoint, distinguishing it from a general consensus or a company stance.
- To Describe Individual Characteristics: It's useful when you're talking about someone's character, appearance, or intrinsic qualities rather than their professional role or external circumstances.
- To Highlight Direct Involvement: Employ "personally" when you want to show that someone undertook an action themselves, rather than delegating it or being indirectly involved.
- To Avoid Ambiguity: In professional settings, saying "personally, I think..." can differentiate your opinion from official policy, preventing misunderstandings.
