VocabDictionary

personal best

/ˌpɜːrsənl ˈbest/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

The highest level of performance or the fastest time achieved by an individual in a specific activity or sport.

Example Sentences:
  • She set a new personal best in the 100-meter sprint during the regional qualifiers.
  • Even though he didn't win the race, he was proud to have achieved a personal best.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “personal best”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

The term emerged in the mid-20th century, primarily within the context of competitive sports and athletics. It is a compound noun phrase derived from the combination of 'personal' (relating to an individual) and 'best' (the highest standard or level achieved). It gained widespread popularity as a way to quantify individual progress in disciplines like track and field, swimming, and weightlifting, eventually expanding into general business and self-improvement contexts.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of a 'PB' as your 'Private Benchmark'—the highest bar you have personally set for yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions About “personal best

1. What is the meaning of “personal best” in English?

In English, personal best (noun) is defined as: “The highest level of performance or the fastest time achieved by an individual in a specific activity or sport.”.

2. How do you use “personal best” in a sentence?

She set a new personal best in the 100-meter sprint during the regional qualifiers.

3. What are English synonyms of “personal best”?

Common synonyms include:PB,career best,personal record,PR

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “personal best”?

The term emerged in the mid-20th century, primarily within the context of competitive sports and athletics. It is a compound noun phrase derived from the combination of 'personal' (relating to an individual) and 'best' (the highest standard or level achieved). It gained widespread popularity as a way to quantify individual progress in disciplines like track and field, swimming, and weightlifting, eventually expanding into general business and self-improvement contexts.