Definition

Adverb 1. Individually; separately; one by one: Refers to considering, dealing with, or handling things or people separately rather than as a group or collectively.

Usage

The phrase "on an individual basis" is used to describe actions, decisions, or considerations that are applied separately to each person, item, or case, rather than applying a single rule or approach to all.

Examples

• The manager prefers to discuss career goals with employees on an individual basis.
• Applications for financial aid are reviewed on an individual basis.
• The doctor said side effects vary and must be assessed on an individual basis.

Advanced Usage

• In formal or administrative contexts: The phrase is often used in official communications, policies, or procedures to indicate that exceptions or specific judgments can be made.
  • Exceptions to this policy are granted on an individual basis.
• Emphasizing personalized attention: It highlights that each case receives its own specific consideration.
  • Our tutoring program works with students on an individual basis to address their unique needs.

Variants and Related Words

• Individually (adv): In a manner relating to a single person or thing.
• Separately (adv): Apart from others.
• One by one (adv): Singly and in sequence.
• Case-by-case (adj/adv): Decided or considered according to the specific details of each instance.

Synonyms

• Individually
• Separately
• Singly
• One at a time
• Personally

Antonyms

• Collectively
• As a group
• Together
• En masse
• Generally

Adverb

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