Definition

1. Adverb:
   • Separately; one by one; as distinct individuals: Refers to considering or dealing with things or people separately rather than as a group.
   • In a manner characteristic of or unique to a single person or thing: Pertaining to the distinct qualities of a single entity.

Usage and Examples

• Adverb:
  • The teacher spoke to the students individually after class. (The teacher spoke to each student separately, one after another.)
  • The components must be checked individually before assembly. (Each separate component must be checked.)
  • Taken individually, his arguments seem weak, but together they form a strong case. (When considered one by one, his arguments appear weak.)

Advanced Usage

• "To consider/view something individually": To examine or think about something as a separate, single unit.
  • The artist's sketches are impressive when viewed individually, but they also tell a story as a series.
• "To address/treat someone individually": To deal with or speak to someone in a personal, one-on-one manner, acknowledging their specific needs.
  • A good manager knows how to coach team members individually.

Variants and Related Words

• Individual (adjective): Single; separate; pertaining to one person or thing.
  • Each individual piece was handcrafted.
• Individual (noun): A single human being or distinct entity.
  • The rights of the individual are important.
• Individuality (noun): The quality or character of a particular person or thing that distinguishes them from others.
  • Her unique style expresses her individuality.

Synonyms

• Separately: As a separate entity; not together.
• Singly: One at a time; individually.
• One by one: Separately and in succession.
• Personally: In a personal manner; done by or for oneself.

Antonyms

• Collectively: As a group; jointly.
• Together: With or in proximity to another person or people.
• En masse: In a group; all together.

Related Phrases and Usage Notes

• "Individually wrapped": A common phrase describing items, especially food or products, that are packaged separately.
  • The candies were individually wrapped in colorful paper.
• Usage Note: "Individually" emphasizes separation and distinctness. It is often used in contexts involving lists, processes, or analysis where items are handled or considered one after the other. It contrasts with terms like "collectively," "as a whole," or "together."

Adverb

1. apart from others
   • taken individually, the rooms were, in fact, square
   • the fine points are treated singly