LessonsUniversal and Particular — Definitions and Practical ClassificationQuiz

Suppose a village currently has only one physician. The concept 'physician' still allows other individuals to qualify, so it is universal.
Now point to that physician and say 'this physician'. With a definite referent, the expression is particular.
The external facts have not changed. What changes is whether we mean a general description or a specified person.

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Why one actual instance may still be universal

Universal and Particular — Definitions and Practical Classification

Suppose a village currently has only one physician. The concept 'physician' still allows other individuals to qualify, so it is universal.
Now point to that physician and say 'this physician'. With a definite referent, the expression is particular.
The external facts have not changed. What changes is whether we mean a general description or a specified person.