What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
someone
Example
Someone left their umbrella in the office. [someone: pronoun]
Example
Can someone help me carry this box? [someone: pronoun]
Example
I heard someone knocking at the door, but I didn't see who it was. [someone: pronoun]
person
Example
That person over there is my friend from college. [person: noun]
Example
Every person has their own unique qualities and characteristics. [person: noun]
Example
She is a kind and generous person. [person: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Person is more commonly used than someone in everyday language. Person is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while someone is more limited in its usage and is often used in casual conversation.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between someone and person?
Person is more formal than someone. While someone is typically associated with a casual and conversational tone, person can be used in both formal and informal contexts.