Definition

A person who believes in or supports the idea that specific cases or individual circumstances should be considered separately rather than applying general rules or principles.

Example

As a particularist, she argued that each situation required its own unique approach.

Conversation

I met someone who really identifies as a particularist in our last discussion.

Oh really? What does that mean exactly?

They believe that every situation is unique and requires a specific approach.

That makes sense! I guess it’s good to consider different perspectives.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Particularist → It is formed from "particular" (from Latin *particularis*, meaning pertaining to a part) and the suffix "-ist" (meaning one who practices or is concerned with). The word "particularist" refers to someone who emphasizes or advocates for specific parts or interests rather than the whole.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who focuses on specific 'parts' ('particular') and is an 'advocate' ('-ist') for those parts. This helps you remember that a particularist is someone who emphasizes specific interests.

Visually Confused Words