I behold him

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I behold him" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in a literary or poetic context to express the act of seeing or observing someone. Example: "As the sun set behind the mountains, I behold him standing alone on the cliff, lost in thought."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

"I behold him with fear now, as conscious of the power my indiscretion has given him over me," she confesses to Anna.

The New Yorker

The Star of Bethlehem is traditionally linked to the Star Prophecy in the Book of Numbers: I see him, but not now; I behold him, but not near; A Star shall come out of Jacob; A Scepter shall rise out of Israel, And batter the brow of Moab, And destroy all the sons of tumult.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

But I am often surprised at the strength of my animal need to hold him, or to behold him if touch is impossible.

The New Yorker

We turn a granite corner, and there, lo and behold, we behold him.

The New Yorker

Many of her songs have become hymnal standards, including "I Go to the Rock," "We Shall Behold Him," "I Will Glory in the Cross" and "He Looked Beyond My Fault (and Saw My Need)," which uses the tune of "Danny Boy".

The New York Times - Arts

She perceives the ridiculous; what I behold is the specificity of fashion.

BBC

I behold God in all creation.

Huffington Post

When I behold the violet past prime, x / x / x / x / x /.

WikiHow

I beheld before me an animated corpse".

The Guardian - Books

But then, so might anything else I beheld in such an altered state.

The New York Times - Arts

I beheld her determination, which was striking.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I behold him" when aiming for a formal, literary, or slightly archaic tone. It adds a sense of reverence or awe to the act of seeing.

Common error

Avoid using "I behold him" in everyday conversation or informal writing. Its formality can sound unnatural or pretentious in modern contexts. Opt for more common alternatives like "I see him" or "I'm watching him" in casual settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I behold him" functions as a declarative statement where the speaker (I) is the subject, behold is the transitive verb expressing the action of seeing, and him is the direct object. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and found in reputable sources.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I behold him" is a grammatically correct phrase used to convey observation with a touch of formality, reverence, or awe. While Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, it's essential to recognize its less frequent usage in modern, informal contexts. Opt for this phrase when seeking a literary or slightly archaic tone, keeping in mind that more common alternatives like "I see him" may be better suited for everyday conversation. While considered rare, example usages are available in News & Media sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I see him

This is the most direct and common synonym, lacking the formality of "behold".

I observe him

This implies a more detached or scientific observation.

I gaze upon him

Suggests a longer, more appreciative look.

I watch him

Indicates a sense of attentiveness or surveillance.

I look at him

A very simple and neutral alternative.

I view him

Similar to 'observe', but slightly more formal.

I contemplate him

Emphasizes thoughtful consideration while looking.

I perceive him

Highlights sensory awareness, not just visual.

I witness him

Implies being present while something happens to him.

I spot him

Suggests a quick or unexpected sighting.

FAQs

What does "I behold him" mean?

The phrase "I behold him" means "I see him", but it carries a more formal and often literary or poetic connotation, suggesting a sense of awe or reverence in the act of seeing.

When should I use "I behold him"?

Use "I behold him" when you want to create a formal, literary, or slightly archaic effect. It's suitable for writing that aims to evoke a sense of wonder or deep appreciation. It's less appropriate in casual conversation. Consider alternatives like "I see him" or "I observe him" for less formal contexts.

Are there synonyms for "I behold him"?

Yes, synonyms include "I see him", "I observe him", "I gaze upon him", and "I look at him". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "I behold him"?

Yes, the phrase "I behold him" is grammatically correct. The verb "behold" is a transitive verb that means to look upon or observe, and it is used correctly in this sentence structure.