particular
/par-tee-koo-lar/
specific
When something is particular, it is specific, like focusing on one thing only.
particular(adjective)
specific
?focusing on one thing
,particular
?individual or distinct
special
?not ordinary
,private
?belonging to a person
📝 In Action
Necesito una razón particular para justificar mi ausencia.
B1I need a specific reason to justify my absence.
Ella tiene una manera particular de ver el mundo.
A2She has a particular way of seeing the world.
En este caso particular, la regla no aplica.
A2In this particular case, the rule does not apply.
💡 Grammar Points
Invariable Form
Unlike many Spanish adjectives, 'particular' doesn't change its ending for masculine or feminine nouns. It always stays the same, but you must add an 's' for plural: 'particulares'.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Confusing with 'Privado'
Mistake: "Using 'particular' when referring to a restricted place (like a bathroom)."
Correction: Use 'privado' for places restricted from public access (e.g., 'acceso privado'). Use 'particular' for things that are unique or personal to someone.
⭐ Usage Tips
Emphasis on Uniqueness
Use 'particular' when you want to highlight that something is distinct, unique, or deviates from a standard pattern.
Particular can also refer to a private individual, someone acting on their own behalf, not as part of a company.
particular(noun)
private individual
?a person, not a company
,private tutor
?a teacher hired personally
private lesson
?a class for one person
,client
?in the context of services
📝 In Action
La venta se hizo de particular a particular, sin intermediarios.
B2The sale was made from one private individual to another, without intermediaries.
Mi hijo necesita un particular que le ayude con el inglés.
B1My son needs a private tutor to help him with English.
Soy un particular; no represento a ninguna empresa.
B1I am a private individual; I don't represent any company.
💡 Grammar Points
Referring to People
When 'particular' means 'private individual,' it acts like a regular noun. Use 'el particular' for a man and 'la particular' for a woman.
⭐ Usage Tips
Context is Key
If you see 'un particular' followed by the name of a subject (e.g., 'un particular de física'), it almost always means 'a private tutor' for that subject.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: particular
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'particular' to mean 'a private person' (noun)?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'particular' and 'privado'?
Both can mean 'private,' but they focus on different aspects. 'Privado' usually means 'restricted access' or 'secret' (e.g., 'fiesta privada' - private party). 'Particular' means 'personal,' 'individual,' or 'unique to one person' (e.g., 'gusto particular' - personal taste).
Does 'particular' change for masculine and feminine nouns?
When used as an adjective (meaning 'specific' or 'unique'), no! It is one of the adjectives that stays the same, whether you are talking about 'un caso particular' (masculine) or 'una situación particular' (feminine). It only changes to 'particulares' in the plural.