a better human

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a better human" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing personal growth, self-improvement, or the desire to enhance one's character or behavior. Example: "Through my experiences and reflections, I strive to become a better human every day."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Are you a better human being?

The New York Times

To be a better human being.

Independent

I've become a better human being.

The New York Times - Magazine

You become a better human being".

The Guardian - Arts

I aspire to be a better human.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

It does not make you a better human being.

The New York Times - Health

Painting makes me feel like a better human being.

The Guardian - Arts

Each one absolutely helped make me a better human.

The New York Times

He said: "John is a great footballer but he is a better human being.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

He doesn't want to become a robot; he wants to be a better human….

Vice

So a book crosses my desk by the "post-evangelical" Dave Tomlinson called How To Be a Bad Christian … And a Better Human Being.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a better human" when emphasizing personal growth in terms of moral character, empathy, or overall positive contribution to society. It often suggests a conscious effort towards self-improvement.

Common error

Avoid using "a better human" to simply mean someone who is more skilled or successful in a particular area. The phrase carries a connotation of moral or ethical improvement, not just competence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a better human" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "better" is an adjective modifying the noun "human". Ludwig's examples show it used in contexts of personal aspirations, describing transformations, and evaluating character.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

15%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Science

7%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a better human" is a widely used and understood expression that signifies personal growth, moral improvement, and enhanced empathy. As Ludwig's examples show, it appears across various contexts, from news articles to academic discussions, suggesting its relevance in diverse areas. The phrase is grammatically correct, and its prevalence indicates its familiarity and acceptance among English speakers. When using "a better human", focus on conveying genuine efforts toward self-improvement and positive contributions to society. Remember that, while this is an expression of self-improvement, it suggests more of a moral and ethical code than simple competence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a kinder person

Simplifies the concept to basic benevolence and warmth.

a more compassionate individual

Highlights empathy and concern for others.

a more humane person

Emphasizes kindness and benevolence.

a more virtuous person

Focuses on moral excellence rather than general improvement.

a person of higher character

Emphasizes strong moral qualities.

a more ethical being

Stresses adherence to moral principles.

a more developed individual

Suggests growth in multiple aspects of personality.

a more well-rounded person

Suggests a balanced development of different traits and skills.

a superior human being

Implies a higher standard of overall quality as a person.

a more refined individual

Highlights improvement in manners and social grace.

FAQs

How can I use "a better human" in a sentence?

You can use "a better human" to express a desire for self-improvement, as in "I strive to be "a better human" every day through my actions and reflections".

What's a good alternative to "a better human"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "a more virtuous person", "a more compassionate individual", or "a kinder person" to convey similar meanings.

Is it correct to say "a better human being" or just "a better human"?

Both "a better human being" and "a better human" are grammatically correct and widely used. The choice depends on the specific context and desired level of formality. "A better human" is slightly more concise.

In what contexts is "a better human" most appropriate?

"A better human" is most appropriate when discussing moral or ethical improvement, personal growth, or the development of positive character traits. It implies a focus on becoming a more compassionate and considerate person.