Entity: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is used to refer to something that exists as a single and complete unit. It is often used in formal, legal, or business contexts to describe organizations, corporations, or anything that has a distinct and independent existence.

• The new policy affects every entity involved in international trade.
• A corporation is a separate legal entity from its owners.

This word is used to describe a living creature, often focusing on its inherent nature or existence. It is commonly used in philosophical or spiritual discussions about life and existence.

• Human beings are capable of rational thought.
• The monk spent years meditating on the nature of being.

This word refers to the state of being alive or real. It is used in both everyday and philosophical contexts to talk about the fact that something or someone is present and real.

• The existence of the Loch Ness Monster has never been proven.
• He questioned the meaning of his existence.

This word is used to highlight a single human being, especially in a way that emphasizes their uniqueness and personal characteristics. It is often used in social, psychological, or demographic contexts.

• Every individual has their own set of values and beliefs.
• The artist is an individual who expresses their emotions through their work.

This word refers to any living entity, including plants, animals, bacteria, and fungi. It is primarily used in scientific, biological, or ecological contexts.

• An ecosystem is made up of various interacting organisms.
• The scientist studied the behavior of microscopic organisms.

Suitable in formal or technical contexts, especially when referring to something that has a distinct and independent existence, often in legal, scientific, or business environments.

• Each entity in the system has a unique identifier.
• The new law will affect all business entities in the region.

Commonly used when referring to a physical item that can be seen and touched in everyday language or when discussing programming and design.

• Place the object on the table.
• In this program, an object can have properties and behaviors.

Informal and versatile, used in everyday conversation to refer to any type of object, situation, idea, or event without needing much detail.

• Can you hand me that thing over there?
• One of the best things about this place is the weather.

Use this term when referring to something that exists independently, particularly in a legal, business, or organizational context.

• The corporation is a distinct legal entity.
• Each entity in the database has a unique identifier.

Use 'element' when referring to a fundamental part or aspect of something, particularly in science, art, or design.

• Oxygen is an essential chemical element for life.
• Color is a key element in graphic design.

This term is best utilized when speaking about a single, complete item that is part of a larger collection or system, often in measurement, education, or military contexts.

• Each unit of the course must be completed to pass.
• In the army, a unit can operate independently during missions.

This word is ideal when talking about parts that make up a larger system, especially in engineering, technology, or machinery.

• The engine is a critical component of the car.
• Software components need to be updated regularly.