When you say personally, it means it's about you, not everyone.
It can show that you are doing something special, just you.
Or, it can mean you are sharing your own idea or feeling about something.
For example, if you say, "Personally, I like apples," it means you like them, maybe others do not.
It's about your own thoughts or actions.
When we use the adverb personally at a C1 level, we're not just stating an opinion; we're emphasizing that this opinion is deeply held and comes from our individual perspective, often contrasting it with a more general view or a professional stance. It signals a shift to a subjective viewpoint, inviting others to consider the speaker's unique experience or belief.
It can also subtly imply a degree of intimacy or direct involvement. For instance, if someone says they are "personally invested" in a project, it means their emotions and individual commitment are deeply tied to its success, beyond just their job description.
At the C2 level, 'personally' signifies a nuanced distinction between an individual's private convictions or experiences and more objective or widely accepted perspectives. It can preface an opinion, underscoring its subjective origin and inviting acknowledgment of this individual viewpoint. Furthermore, it often highlights a direct, intimate involvement or impact on the speaker, emphasizing how an event or situation affects them beyond a superficial or professional capacity. This usage adds a layer of introspection and emotional depth to communication.
§ Mistakes People Make with "Personally"
The adverb “personally” is a useful word for conveying individual perspectives, involvement, or feelings. However, its nuanced meanings can sometimes lead to common errors. Understanding these pitfalls can help you use “personally” more precisely and effectively.
§ 1. Redundancy with "I think" or "I believe"
One of the most frequent mistakes is using “personally” unnecessarily when you've already indicated that it's your opinion. Phrases like “I personally think” or “I personally believe” are often redundant because “I think” or “I believe” already convey a personal viewpoint. Adding “personally” in these cases doesn't add much, and can even sound a bit overemphatic or formal in casual conversation.
- DEFINITION
- Redundancy occurs when words or phrases repeat information or ideas unnecessarily, making sentences less concise and sometimes awkward.
Instead of:
I personally think it's a great idea.
Try:
I think it's a great idea.
Or, if you want to emphasize the personal nature of the opinion, you could say:
Personally, I think it's a great idea.
§ 2. Misplacing "Personally" for Emphasis
The placement of “personally” can subtly change the emphasis of a sentence. When used at the beginning of a sentence, it clearly signals that the following statement is a personal opinion. However, placing it in the middle of a sentence, especially before the verb, can sometimes sound awkward or shift the focus unintentionally.
Incorrect placement:
He asked me to personally deliver the message.
While not grammatically incorrect, it sounds a little less natural than:
He asked me to deliver the message personally.
In the second example, “personally” clearly modifies “deliver,” indicating that the act of delivery itself is done by the individual. In the first, it can feel like it's modifying “asked,” which is not the intended meaning.
§ 3. Using "Personally" When a Stronger Adverb is Needed
Sometimes, “personally” is used when a more specific or impactful adverb would be better. For instance, if you're talking about feeling something deeply, words like “deeply,” “profoundly,” or “intensely” might convey the meaning more effectively than “personally.” “Personally” focuses on the individual perspective or involvement, but not necessarily the *intensity* of a feeling.
Instead of:
I felt personally hurt by his comments.
Consider:
I felt deeply hurt by his comments.
While “personally hurt” isn't wrong, “deeply hurt” better expresses the intensity of the emotion, whereas “personally hurt” emphasizes that the hurt was directed at *you* as an individual, rather than in a professional capacity or as a general observation. The distinction depends on the precise nuance you wish to convey.
§ 4. Overuse of "Personally" for Emphasis
Similar to redundancy, sometimes speakers or writers overuse “personally” in an attempt to add emphasis to their statements. When used too frequently, it loses its impact and can make the speech or writing sound less natural or even a bit self-important. Its strength lies in its occasional and strategic use to highlight a genuine personal viewpoint or involvement.
Imagine a paragraph where every opinion is prefaced with “personally”: this would quickly become tiresome and dilute the effect of the word. Instead, vary your sentence structure and use other adverbs or phrases to convey emphasis when appropriate.
§ 5. Confusing "Personally" with "Privately" or "Confidential"
While “personally” can relate to private opinions or feelings, it's not a direct synonym for “privately” or “confidentially.” “Personally” implies something done by an individual or affecting an individual's private self. “Privately” implies discretion or secrecy, and “confidentially” strongly implies that information is not to be shared. Using “personally” when “privately” or “confidentially” is intended can lead to misunderstandings.
Incorrect usage:
He told me the news personally, so don't tell anyone.
Here, “personally” indicates he told *you* directly, but it doesn't automatically imply confidentiality. A clearer statement would be:
He told me the news privately, so don't tell anyone.
Or even more strongly:
He told me the news confidentially, so don't tell anyone.
§ Summary of Using "Personally"
To use “personally” effectively:
- Avoid redundancy when “I think” or “I believe” already convey your personal opinion.
- Place it thoughtfully to ensure it modifies the intended part of the sentence.
- Choose more precise adverbs when you want to express intensity of feeling or action.
- Use it sparingly to maintain its impact and avoid overuse.
- Distinguish it from adverbs like “privately” or “confidentially” when discretion or secrecy is the primary meaning.
By being mindful of these common mistakes, you can wield “personally” with greater precision and enhance the clarity and nuance of your communication.
Difficulty Rating
The word is common, but its multiple meanings (indicating personal involvement vs. private opinion/feelings) might require careful reading to disambiguate in context. Sentence structure can also impact difficulty.
Using 'personally' correctly requires understanding its nuances, especially when distinguishing between expressing a private opinion and indicating direct involvement. Punctuation can also be a factor.
Pronunciation is straightforward. The challenge lies in using it appropriately to convey the intended meaning, especially in more nuanced contexts.
Common word, clear pronunciation. Context usually clarifies meaning, reducing listening difficulty.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Examples by Level
I personally believe it's important to be kind to everyone.
Я особисто вважаю, що важливо бути добрим до всіх.
Here, 'personally' emphasizes that it's the speaker's own opinion.
She personally thanked each volunteer for their hard work.
Вона особисто подякувала кожному волонтеру за їхню важку працю.
'Personally' shows that she did it herself, not through someone else.
I don't know him personally, but I've heard good things about him.
Я не знаю його особисто, але я чув про нього хороші речі.
This means 'I don't have a personal relationship with him'.
This project is personally very important to me.
Цей проект особисто дуже важливий для мене.
Here, 'personally' means it affects the speaker's feelings or private interest.
He handled the complaint personally to make sure it was resolved.
Він особисто розглянув скаргу, щоб переконатися, що її було вирішено.
'Personally' indicates he dealt with it himself.
Personally, I prefer tea to coffee.
Особисто я віддаю перевагу чаю, а не каві.
Used to introduce a personal preference or opinion.
It was a difficult decision, but I made it personally.
Це було важке рішення, але я прийняв його особисто.
Emphasizes that the speaker took responsibility for the decision.
She took the news personally, even though it wasn't directed at her.
Вона сприйняла новини особисто, хоча це не було адресовано їй.
This means she felt offended or affected by something not meant for her.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
personally speaking
I personally believe
if you ask me personally
don't take it personally
personally I think
personally I feel
personally handle
personally know
take something personally
personally prefer
How to Use It
When 'personally' is used to mean 'by a specific person,' it often emphasizes that the action was not delegated or done by a representative. For example, 'The CEO personally reviewed every application.' It can also be used to highlight a direct involvement, such as 'She personally thanked each volunteer.'
When introducing a private opinion, 'personally' signals that the following statement is subjective and not necessarily a universally held view. For example, 'Personally, I think the new design is an improvement.' This use helps to soften a strong opinion or to differentiate it from a professional stance.
Regarding an individual's private life or feelings, 'personally' can describe something that affects them on a deeper, emotional level, rather than just their work. For instance, 'The criticism affected him personally, even though it was about his project.'
One common mistake is overusing 'personally' when it's not strictly necessary to emphasize personal involvement or opinion. For example, 'I personally believe that...' can often just be 'I believe that...' unless the 'personally' adds specific emphasis on the individual nature of the belief.
Another mistake is using 'personally' when the context already makes it clear that the action or opinion is individual. For example, in a sentence like 'I think he should personally apologize,' if 'he' is the only one who can apologize, 'personally' might be redundant unless it emphasizes that he should do it himself and not send a representative.
Sometimes, 'personally' is misused when the intended meaning is 'in person' or 'face-to-face.' For example, instead of 'I will speak to him personally,' if the intention is to meet him, it might be clearer to say 'I will speak to him in person.' While 'personally' can sometimes imply this, 'in person' is more direct for that specific meaning.
Test Yourself 42 questions
I ___ like ice cream very much.
The word 'personally' is used to show your own opinion or feeling.
She helped me ___ with my homework.
The word 'personally' means that she helped you herself, not someone else.
He told me ___ that he was leaving.
The word 'personally' indicates that he told you himself, in person.
If you say 'I personally think', it means it's your own opinion.
'Personally' is used to introduce a private opinion.
When someone helps you 'personally', it means they sent someone else to help.
When someone helps you 'personally', it means they did it themselves.
The word 'personally' is only used for bad feelings.
'Personally' can be used for any private opinion or feeling, good or bad.
Write a short paragraph about a personal goal you have, using the word 'personally' at least once.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
I personally want to learn a new language this year. It's a goal I've set for myself to improve my communication skills and experience new cultures. I hope to achieve fluency by the end of the year.
Complete the sentence: 'I think it's important to always be honest, because I personally believe that...'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
I think it's important to always be honest, because I personally believe that trust is the foundation of any good relationship.
Describe a situation where you had a personal feeling about something that was different from what others thought.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
During the team meeting, everyone seemed excited about the new project, but I personally felt a bit worried about the tight deadline. I didn't want to discourage anyone, so I kept my thoughts to myself.
What did Sarah personally want to study?
Read this passage:
Sarah was trying to decide which university to attend. Her parents wanted her to study law, but Sarah personally felt that she would be happier studying art. She knew it would be a difficult conversation, but she felt it was important to follow her own dreams.
What did Sarah personally want to study?
The passage states that 'Sarah personally felt that she would be happier studying art.'
The passage states that 'Sarah personally felt that she would be happier studying art.'
How did John personally feel about the new dress code?
Read this passage:
The new company policy stated that all employees must wear formal attire. John, however, personally preferred to wear more casual clothes, finding them more comfortable for his work. He decided to speak to his manager about it.
How did John personally feel about the new dress code?
The passage says, 'John, however, personally preferred to wear more casual clothes.'
The passage says, 'John, however, personally preferred to wear more casual clothes.'
Which type of event did Maria personally prefer?
Read this passage:
Maria had received several invitations to parties on Saturday night. She was torn between a big, noisy gathering and a quiet dinner with a few close friends. Personally, she felt more inclined towards the smaller, more intimate event.
Which type of event did Maria personally prefer?
The passage indicates that 'Personally, she felt more inclined towards the smaller, more intimate event,' which refers to the quiet dinner with close friends.
The passage indicates that 'Personally, she felt more inclined towards the smaller, more intimate event,' which refers to the quiet dinner with close friends.
Choose the sentence where 'personally' is used to introduce a private opinion.
In option B, 'personally' introduces the speaker's private belief about the new policy. The other options use 'personally' to indicate direct action by an individual.
Which sentence uses 'personally' to mean 'by a specific person rather than someone else'?
Option B uses 'personally' to emphasize that the president himself, and not a representative, thanked the volunteers. The other options relate to private opinions or feelings.
In which sentence does 'personally' describe something that affects an individual's private life or feelings?
Option B indicates that the promotion offer affected his private feelings and sense of worth. Option C introduces a private opinion, while A and D refer to direct action.
The sentence 'I personally handed in my resignation' means that the speaker resigned in a private and emotional way.
In this context, 'personally' means the speaker directly handed in their resignation themselves, not that it was done in a private or emotional manner. It emphasizes direct action.
If someone says 'Personally, I prefer tea over coffee', they are expressing a private preference.
When 'personally' is used at the beginning of a sentence or before a verb like 'prefer', it introduces a private opinion or preference.
The phrase 'Don't take it personally' implies that one should not feel individually offended or affected by something that is not directed at them as an individual.
This common idiom advises against letting something affect one's private feelings or self-esteem, especially if it's a general comment or criticism not specifically aimed at them.
This sentence uses 'personally' to introduce a private opinion, emphasizing that it's the speaker's own thought.
Here, 'personally' indicates that she wants to do the task herself, rather than letting someone else do it.
In this sentence, 'personally' shows that the news had an impact on his private feelings or life.
Which of the following sentences uses 'personally' to express a private opinion?
Option B uses 'personally' to introduce the speaker's private opinion about the new policy. The other options describe an action being done by a specific person.
In which sentence does 'personally' emphasize that an action was performed directly by an individual?
Option B indicates that the individual directly bore the responsibility. Options A and D express private opinions, and option C describes a personal impact.
Choose the sentence where 'personally' highlights that something affects an individual's private feelings or life.
Option B shows that the criticism impacted her private feelings, rather than her professional role. The other options refer to direct action or private opinion.
The sentence 'She felt personally betrayed by his actions' implies that her professional reputation was primarily damaged.
The sentence implies a deep emotional impact on her private feelings, not necessarily her professional reputation. 'Personally' emphasizes the individual's private emotional response.
In the phrase 'I personally guarantee it,' 'personally' is used to convey a private opinion.
In this phrase, 'personally' is used to emphasize that the speaker is directly making the guarantee, taking individual responsibility for it, rather than expressing a private opinion.
When someone says 'Personally, I think you should reconsider,' they are expressing their own individual viewpoint.
This statement uses 'personally' to introduce the speaker's private opinion or viewpoint on the matter.
Write a short paragraph (3-4 sentences) about a situation where you had to make a decision that affected you personally, even though others might have preferred a different outcome.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
I recently had to decide on a career change. Although my family wished I would stay in my current stable job, I personally felt a strong pull towards pursuing a more creative field. It was a difficult choice, as it significantly impacted my financial security, but ultimately, I knew I needed to prioritize my personal fulfillment.
Describe a time when you held an opinion that was significantly different from the majority, and how you articulated that view personally.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
During a team meeting, everyone seemed to agree on a particular marketing strategy. However, I personally believed it wouldn't resonate with our target demographic. I had to articulate my reservations carefully, explaining my reasoning from a personal perspective rather than just contradicting the group consensus.
Imagine you are giving feedback to a colleague. Write a sentence or two using 'personally' to introduce a private, subjective observation about their work.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
I personally found that the introduction to your report could be more engaging. While the data is solid, I feel a stronger hook would draw the reader in more effectively.
What does the author imply about the 'personally' held frustration?
Read this passage:
While the company policy clearly outlines the procedure for requesting vacation, many employees feel that the process is overly bureaucratic. Personally, I find the sheer volume of paperwork required to be quite frustrating, and it often deters me from taking the time off I need. This individual experience is echoed by several colleagues who have also expressed similar sentiments regarding the rigidity of the system.
What does the author imply about the 'personally' held frustration?
The passage states, 'This individual experience is echoed by several colleagues,' indicating that the author's personal frustration is shared by others, making option C the correct answer.
The passage states, 'This individual experience is echoed by several colleagues,' indicating that the author's personal frustration is shared by others, making option C the correct answer.
What is the author's personal view on the project manager's communication style?
Read this passage:
The new project manager is highly efficient and technically skilled. However, her communication style can sometimes be perceived as abrupt. Personally, I appreciate her directness as it saves time, but I've observed that some team members are less comfortable with it, preferring a more nuanced approach to discussions.
What is the author's personal view on the project manager's communication style?
The author states, 'Personally, I appreciate her directness as it saves time,' directly indicating their personal view. Options A, B, and D contradict this statement or are not directly supported as the author's personal view.
The author states, 'Personally, I appreciate her directness as it saves time,' directly indicating their personal view. Options A, B, and D contradict this statement or are not directly supported as the author's personal view.
What does the author's use of 'personally' emphasize in this context?
Read this passage:
Despite the overwhelmingly positive reviews for the latest blockbuster film, I personally found the plot to be somewhat predictable and the character development lacking. While I understand why many enjoyed the special effects, for me, a compelling storyline is paramount. This highlights how individual preferences can diverge, even in widely acclaimed works.
What does the author's use of 'personally' emphasize in this context?
The phrase 'personally found' is used to introduce the author's private opinion that differs from the 'overwhelmingly positive reviews,' emphasizing its subjective and individual nature. Options A, B, and D are incorrect as the passage highlights individual preference and not professional expertise or a desire to be contrarian.
The phrase 'personally found' is used to introduce the author's private opinion that differs from the 'overwhelmingly positive reviews,' emphasizing its subjective and individual nature. Options A, B, and D are incorrect as the passage highlights individual preference and not professional expertise or a desire to be contrarian.
Listen for how 'personally' emphasizes her direct experience and subsequent dedication.
Pay attention to how 'personally' highlights his direct involvement and the impact on his private life.
Notice how 'personally' introduces a dissenting individual opinion, despite a group agreement.
Read this aloud:
Could you elaborate on how you've personally addressed the challenges of maintaining work-life balance in such a demanding professional environment?
Focus: personally, addressed
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
Considering your extensive experience in this field, what are your personal recommendations for navigating the complexities of international trade agreements, particularly when cultural nuances are involved?
Focus: personal, recommendations
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
How do you reconcile the public's expectations with your personal ethical framework when making difficult decisions that impact a large community?
Focus: reconcile, personal ethical framework
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
/ 42 correct
Perfect score!
