individual
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individual
A single person as an independent personality with unique characteristics, in contrast to the group or society.
In einer Demokratie müssen die Rechte des Individuums geschützt werden.
In a democracy, the rights of the individual must be protected.
The word comes from Latin and literally means 'the indivisible'. It therefore emphasizes that a person or living being is a single unit that cannot be divided further.
Jedes Individuum hat eine einzigartige genetische Ausstattung.
Each individual has a unique genetic makeup.
'Individuum' (individual) is a word used in elevated language. It is used mainly in scientific, philosophical, or official texts.
Die Studie untersucht das Verhalten des Individuums in Stresssituationen.
The study examines the behavior of the individual in stressful situations.
In a social or philosophical context, 'Individuum' (individual) is often connected with concepts such as 'Rechte' (rights), 'Freiheit' (freedom), or 'Verantwortung' (responsibility).
Die Freiheit des Individuums endet dort, wo die Freiheit des anderen beginnt.
The freedom of the individual ends where the freedom of another begins.
You can often recognize the biological meaning from words from the natural sciences, such as 'Art' (species), 'Population' (population), 'Gattung' (genus), or 'Lebewesen' (living being). Without this context, it usually refers to a human being as a personality.
Die Forscher beobachteten ein einzelnes Individuum der seltenen Vogelart.
The researchers observed a single individual of the rare bird species.
human / person
'der Mensch' and 'das Individuum' can both mean a single person. 'Mensch' is the normal everyday word and can also mean humankind in general. 'Individuum' puts more emphasis on a person being separate and having their own characteristics, especially in contrast to a group. That is why 'Individuum' sounds somewhat more formal or factual. If you are simply talking about a person, 'Mensch' is usually more natural. If the difference between an individual person and a group is important, 'Individuum' fits better.
In diesem Kurs soll jedes Individuum in seinem eigenen Tempo lernen.
In this course, each individual should learn at their own pace.
Beim Einkaufen hilft meine Nachbarin oft älteren Menschen.
When shopping, my neighbor often helps elderly people.