Man: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in general contexts to refer to an adult human male.

• He is a good man
• The man at the counter was very helpful

Used in scientific or biological contexts to describe the sex of an individual.

• The male lion is the leader of the pride
• This study focuses on the differences between male and female behavior

Informal term used in casual conversation to refer to a man. It can sometimes have a slightly less respectful tone depending on the context.

• Who's that guy over there? A group of guys were playing football

Used in formal contexts to describe a man who is courteous and considerate, often with good manners.

• He's such a gentleman
• The gentleman at the door helped me carry my bags

Often used in a more casual or friendly manner, sometimes to refer to someone of equal status or shared experience.

• He's a nice fellow
• The fellow students were very supportive

This word appears twice, and the second instance is redundant. Refer to the first instance for appropriate context and examples.

A generic term for any human being, used in most everyday contexts without specifying gender or other characteristics.

• There's a person at the door
• She is a very kind person

Used when you want to emphasize a single person's uniqueness or distinct personality, often in discussions of rights or characteristics.

• Each individual has their own talents
• The project focuses on the individual's needs

Used in a more formal or scientific context to refer to a member of the species Homo sapiens, emphasizing the biological and existential aspects.

• Every human being deserves equal rights
• Scientists study human beings to understand more about our evolution

Used to refer specifically to an adult female human.

• That woman is very talented
• The woman sat by the window, reading a book

Repeated context for this word; already covered.

A general term for someone engaged in work, regardless of the nature or skill level of the job.

• Many workers are needed to complete the project on time.
• The factory workers went on strike for better pay.

Describes someone who does physical work, often of a low skill level. Can sometimes have a negative connotation.

• The laborer spent the day digging trenches.
• Many laborers are hired during the harvest season.

Refers to someone who works for another person or organization in return for wages or salary.

• She is an employee of a large tech company.
• The new employee completed the onboarding process.

Describes someone skilled in a particular craft or trade, often creating handmade items.

• The artisan crafted a beautiful wooden table.
• Local artisans displayed their work at the market.