WorldAugust 17, 2026
particularized
pur-TIK-yuh-luh-ryzd
Definition
Refers to harm or impact that is specific, distinct, and unique to an individual or entity, rather than harm that is broad, general, or shared by the public at large.
Etymology
Derived from the word 'particular,' which traces back to the Latin 'particula,' meaning 'small part.' The term evolved to describe things that relate to a specific, single part rather than a whole.
In the news
In this article, the word describes the specific type of impact local governments had to demonstrate to gain legal standing; the court ruled that general exposure to climate change was not enough, requiring a more particularized, individual harm instead.
Standing and Remedies in Climate Litigation: How TotalEnergies Echoes KlimaSeniorinnen
Read the full article ↗EJIL: Talk!