Words / C1

ENT-uh-tee/ˈentəti/

An entity is something that exists as a separate unit, especially in law or organisation: a legal entity, a separate entity. Organisation and body are everyday in institutions; thing is too loose. In speech, a separate organisation / a separate unit is enough. Entity is official and abstract. It is not a synonym for person in ordinary talk (a legal person can be an entity). Do not call a feeling an entity unless you are doing philosophy on purpose.

Meaning

Something that exists as a separate unit, such as a company or organisation.

Examples

• “The school is a separate legal entity.”
• “The academy is a separate legal entity from the old local-authority school.”
• “Treat the charity and the trading arm as two entities, with two sets of books.”

Good to know

A separate existing unit (often legal). Everyday: a separate organisation / unit. Official/abstract. Contrast: a person in ordinary talk; a mere idea.

Near in meaning

organisation

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