What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
respective
Example
The two teams celebrated their respective victories. [respective: adjective]
Example
The students were seated in their respective classrooms. [respective: adjective]
Example
Each member of the team was given their respective tasks. [respective: adjective]
individual
Example
Each individual has their own strengths and weaknesses. [individual: noun]
Example
The artist's individual style is easily recognizable. [individual: adjective]
Example
The company offers individualized services to meet each client's needs. [individualized: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Individual is more commonly used than respective in everyday language. Individual is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while respective is less common and is typically used in more formal or technical contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between respective and individual?
While respective is typically associated with a formal or technical tone, individual is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.