impersonal
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About Our Definitions: All forms of a word (noun, verb, etc.) are now displayed on one page.im·per·son·al
adjective \(ˌ)im-ˈpərs-nəl, -ˈpər-sə-nəl\Definition of IMPERSONAL
1
a : denoting the verbal action of an unspecified agent and hence used with no expressed subject (as methinks) or with a merely formal subject (as rained in it rained) b of a pronoun : indefinite
2
a : having no personal reference or connection <impersonal criticism> b : not engaging the human personality or emotions <the machine as compared with the hand tool is an impersonal agency — John Dewey> c : not existing as a person : not having human qualities or characteristics
— im·per·son·al·i·ty \-ˌpər-sə-ˈna-lə-tē\ noun
— im·per·son·al·ly \-ˈpərs-nə-lē, -ˈpər-sə-nə-lē\ adverb
See Examples of IMPERSONAL
- We discussed the weather and other impersonal topics.
- He maintained an impersonal, professional attitude.
- “Rained” in “it rained” is an impersonal verb.
Origin of IMPERSONAL
Middle English, from Late Latin impersonalis, from Latin in- + Late Latin personalis personal
First Known Use: 15th century
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