This is the 86th most frequent Afrikaans word.
mens
"Mens" in Afrikaans means "person" or "human."
In this sentence, 'mens' refers to humanity as a collective, emphasizing a general responsibility characteristic of all people.
Die mens is verantwoordelik vir die beskerming van die planeet.
Humans are responsible for the protection of the planet.
In this usage, 'mens' signifies an individual human being, specifying the intrinsic value of a personal life.
Daar is niks so kosbaar soos die lewe van 'n mens nie.
There is nothing as precious as the life of a person.
Here, 'mens' is used as a pronoun meaning 'one' or 'a person,' applicable to a general unspecified individual.