original
/əˈrɪdʒ.ɪ.nəl/ IELTSAcademic
adjective
Made first, not copied from something else. It can also mean new and different in style or idea.
- This is her original painting.
- He gave an original answer.
noun
The first version of something, not a copy. It can also mean the first work, document, or object before changes are made.
- Keep the original and send a copy.
- The original was lost in the fire.
Adinary Nuance
Original is not the same as new. Something original is first, creative, or not copied, while new only means it has been made or arrived recently. It is also different from unique: original focuses on where something came from, not on being one of a kind. Writers often use it for ideas, art, and writing that feel fresh and self-made.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- nguyên bản
- Spanish
- original
- Chinese
- 原始的
- Japanese
- オリジナル
- Korean
- 원래의
Etymology
Original comes from Late Latin originalis, from Latin origo meaning 'beginning' or 'source'. It entered English in the 15th century.
Common phrases
original ideaoriginal versionoriginal workoriginal source
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is original the same as new?
- Not exactly. Original means first or not copied. New only means recent or recently made.
- What is the difference between original and unique?
- Original means made first or with fresh ideas. Unique means one of a kind.
- Can I use original for people?
- Yes, especially to describe original thinking or an original style.
- Is original formal?
- It is neutral and common in both speech and writing.