LessonsFour Relations Between Universals and Relative ParticularityQuiz

As explained earlier, a real particular (juzʾī ḥaqīqī) is a concept whose own representation precludes application to many distinct individuals in the same sense. “Zayd,” as the name of a specified individual, is a straightforward case.

A relative particular need not be restricted to one individual. “Human” applies to many, yet remains relatively particular beneath “animal.”

The criteria therefore differ:
Real particular — restricted by its own conceived identity.
Relative particular — narrower than some other concept in a comparison.

Opening interactive controls...

Real particularity is intrinsic

Four Relations Between Universals and Relative Particularity

As explained earlier, a real particular (juzʾī ḥaqīqī) is a concept whose own representation precludes application to many distinct individuals in the same sense. “Zayd,” as the name of a specified individual, is a straightforward case.

A relative particular need not be restricted to one individual. “Human” applies to many, yet remains relatively particular beneath “animal.”

The criteria therefore differ:
Real particular — restricted by its own conceived identity.
Relative particular — narrower than some other concept in a comparison.