I embraced him

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I embraced him" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a physical or metaphorical embrace, such as when a person is expressing love, appreciation, or comfort. For example, "When my brother returned from his deployment, I embraced him tightly, happy to have him home safe."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

I embraced him to say goodbye.

The New Yorker

"I embraced him, and I cried for half an hour.

The New Yorker

When I embraced him, I held on to his bony frame for a long while.

The New Yorker

"Without thinking at all about what I should do," he tells us, "I embraced him as a brother".

The New Yorker

"But after I embraced him I said to my husband: 'Something is not right.

The New York Times

As I embraced him, I felt like he hadn't wanted me to hug him and felt uncomfortable.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Quite the contrary: I embrace him for who he is.

The New York Times

I embrace him, worried, but thankful that he dares to share tough feelings with me.

Huffington Post

I almost embraced him on the spot - and not embrace in the way it is typically used in the bind of Danielle Steele.

Huffington Post

So I got in closer and embraced him, and I pushed down, and his head hit the cement.

The New Yorker

"I rushed up and embraced him," Mr. Penn recalled in "Passage".

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I embraced him" to convey a sense of physical affection, emotional support, or acceptance. Consider the context to ensure the intensity of the verb "embraced" is appropriate.

Common error

While "embraced" is versatile, avoid overusing it in formal writing where a more precise verb might better convey the intended meaning. For instance, instead of saying a company "embraced" a new technology, specify that they "adopted" or "implemented" it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I embraced him" functions as a declarative statement expressing a past action. The subject "I" performs the action of embracing another person ("him"). Ludwig provides examples where the phrase is used to describe moments of farewell, comfort, and brotherly affection.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I embraced him" is a grammatically correct and usable expression denoting an act of hugging, support, or acceptance. Ludwig indicates this is often used in News & Media contexts and can subtly imply deeper emotion or a more significant connection than a simple "hug". While perfectly acceptable, consider the specific nuances you wish to convey to the readers. The key, according to Ludwig AI, is to ensure the intensity of the verb "embraced" aligns with the emotional tone and overall purpose of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I hugged him

Replaces "embraced" with a more common synonym, focusing on the physical act of hugging.

I gave him a hug

Slightly alters the structure to emphasize the act of giving a hug.

I held him close

Emphasizes the closeness and intimacy of the embrace.

I wrapped my arms around him

Provides a more descriptive and physical depiction of the embrace.

I clasped him to my chest

Implies a more protective or emotional embrace.

I took him into my arms

Suggests a gentle or caring embrace.

I welcomed him with open arms

Highlights the welcoming and accepting nature of the embrace, often used metaphorically.

I showed him affection

Shifts the focus to the expression of affection rather than the physical act.

I expressed my support

Conveys a metaphorical embrace of support or encouragement.

I showed him kindness

Highlights the element of kindness conveyed through the embrace.

FAQs

How can I use "I embraced him" in a sentence?

You can use "I embraced him" to describe a physical act of hugging, showing affection, or offering comfort. For example, "After his victory, I embraced him warmly."

What are some alternatives to "I embraced him"?

You can use alternatives like "I hugged him", "I gave him a hug", or "I held him close" depending on the context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is "I embraced him" too formal for casual conversation?

While "I embraced him" isn't overly formal, "I hugged him" might be more common in casual conversation. The best choice depends on the specific context and your personal style.

What's the difference between "I embraced him" and "I hugged him"?

While similar, "embraced" can suggest a more prolonged or emotional hug than "hugged". "Embraced" might also imply a metaphorical acceptance or support, while "hugged" typically refers to the physical action.