Particularity Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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particularity

[หŒpษ‘หrtษชkjuหˆlรฆrษชti ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

unique characteristic

The particularity of the painting lies in its use of vibrant colors and intricate details.

Synonyms

distinctiveness, specificity, uniqueness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
particularity

Often used to emphasize specific details or characteristics that make something unique, particularly in formal contexts.

  • The particularity of this painting lies in its intricate brushwork.
  • She described the particularities of the regional dialect.
distinctiveness

Used to highlight features that set something apart from others, typically in a positive or neutral way.

  • The distinctiveness of his voice made him an excellent narrator.
  • The distinctiveness of the architecture attracts many tourists.
uniqueness

Emphasizes the state of being one of a kind, often used in a positive light.

  • Her uniqueness shines through in her creative projects.
  • The uniqueness of the event drew a large crowd.
specificity

Refers to the quality of being specific or detailed, usually in technical or detailed descriptions.

  • The specificity of the scientific research was impressive.
  • Without specificity, the instructions remain confusing.

Examples of usage

  • The particularity of her style is what makes her stand out among other artists.
  • The particularity of this species of bird is its bright red feathers.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Philosophy

  • Philosophers often discuss particularity in the context of individuality and the essence of a thing.
  • In metaphysics, particularity contrasts with universals, emphasizing what makes each object or person distinct.
  • The study of particularity is crucial in debates about identity and existence throughout history.

Psychology

  • Humans often remember details better if they are emphasized as particularities, making them stand out.
  • Particularity plays a role in how we perceive personal identity and how we distinguish between self and others.
  • In developmental psychology, children learn to recognize and appreciate particularities around them, enhancing their cognitive abilities.

Art

  • In art, particularity can refer to the unique details that make a piece of work stand out, like brush strokes or color choices.
  • Artists often explore particularity in their subjects to evoke emotional responses and express individuality.
  • The concept is vital in movements like Impressionism, where specific moments captured in unique ways highlight their distinct nature.

Linguistics

  • In linguistics, particularity can refer to how specific nouns or phrases convey unique meanings in context.
  • Particularity affects how we use adjectives, as they describe traits that define something uniquely.
  • Understanding particularity in language can enhance effective communication by emphasizing different characteristics of subjects.

Origin of 'particularity'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'particularis', meaning 'individual' or 'separate'.
  • Originally, 'particularity' in English referred to the quality of being distinct or special around the 14th century.
  • The prefix 'parti-' in Latin relates to parts or segments, which hints at uniqueness.

The word 'particularity' originated from the Latin word 'particularis', meaning 'pertaining to a part'. Over time, it evolved to encompass the idea of a unique or specific characteristic. The term has been used in various contexts, from art and literature to philosophy and science, to describe the distinctiveness or specificity of something.


See also: particularities, particularized, particularly, particulars.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,944, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.