Unidentified individual: meaning, definitions and examples

This phrase is often used in formal or official contexts, such as police reports, news articles, or legal documents, when the identity of a person is not known or not disclosed.

• The police are looking for an unidentified individual related to the incident.
• An unidentified individual was seen leaving the building late at night.

This term is used in everyday conversation or less formal situations when someone doesn't know who a specific person is. It is straightforward and neutral.

• A package was delivered to me by an unknown person.
• An unknown person called my phone several times today.

This phrase is used in both formal and informal contexts, typically when the identity of the person is known but is purposely not being disclosed, often to protect their privacy or for legal reasons.

• The unnamed individual provided crucial information to the investigators.
• An unnamed individual was awarded a medal for their actions during the crisis.

Used in formal or official reports, such as in investigations or news articles, where the identity of the person is not known. This term is neutral and doesn't imply anything negative.

• The police found an unidentified individual near the scene of the crime.
• Authorities are seeking information about an unidentified individual seen in the surveillance footage.

Often used in general contexts, including news and daily communication, to indicate that the identity of the person is unknown. It is a neutral term.

• An unidentified person left a package at the front door.
• The hospital admitted an unidentified person last night.

Primarily used in medical and health-related contexts where the identity of a patient is not known, such as when someone is admitted to a hospital without identification.

• The emergency room received an unknown patient after the accident.
• Medical staff are requesting help to identify an unknown patient admitted with severe injuries.