a bookworm

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a bookworm" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It refers to someone who loves to read books and spends a lot of time doing so. Example: My sister is such a bookworm, she finishes at least two books a week.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Books

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

A bookworm?

The New York Times

Not bad for a bookworm.

The New York Times - Books

One is a bookworm.

The Guardian - Books

"So you're just a bookworm.

The New Yorker

_ Yes, I am a bookworm.

The New Yorker

For one thing, she's a bookworm.

The New York Times

Would you consider yourself a bookworm?

The New Yorker

She's a bookworm separated from books.

The Guardian - Books

Basically, I was 100% a bookworm.

The Guardian

Yet the Briton was anything but a bookworm.

The New York Times - Arts

President Bush has never been known as a bookworm.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To create imagery in your text, pair "a bookworm" with descriptive language about their reading habits or the types of books they enjoy.

Common error

While "a bookworm" often conjures images of someone shy and introverted, remember that avid readers come in all personalities. Avoid limiting your character descriptions with these assumptions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a bookworm" functions primarily as a noun phrase, serving to describe a person who enjoys reading and spends a significant amount of time doing so. Ludwig provides numerous examples of this usage across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Wiki

12%

Books

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a bookworm" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe someone who loves to read. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely accepted and understood. While primarily neutral in tone, it can occasionally carry a slightly negative connotation if used to suggest someone is overly studious or socially withdrawn. It appears most frequently in News & Media and Books, and less so in more formal settings. For alternatives, consider "avid reader" or "voracious reader" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

book lover

A more general and less intense term for someone who enjoys books.

a keen reader

Suggests a strong interest in reading.

avid reader

Focuses on the enthusiasm for reading rather than the amount of time spent.

reading enthusiast

Highlights passion for reading.

voracious reader

Emphasizes the large quantity of books consumed.

literary enthusiast

Specifies an interest in literature, often of a higher level.

bibliophile

Highlights a love of books as physical objects, often collectible.

intellectual reader

Suggests the person reads with an analytical and thoughtful mind.

one who is fond of books

A more descriptive and less idiomatic way of saying someone likes books.

student of literature

Implies a more academic approach to reading and literary study.

FAQs

How can I use "a bookworm" in a sentence?

You can use "a bookworm" to describe someone who loves reading, for example: "My sister is "a bookworm" and always has a book in her hand."

What are some alternative phrases for "a bookworm"?

Alternatives include "avid reader", "voracious reader", or "bibliophile", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it always positive to call someone "a bookworm"?

While generally positive, "a bookworm" can sometimes imply someone is overly studious or socially awkward. Consider your audience and the context.

What characteristics define "a bookworm"?

A "a bookworm" is typically characterized by a love of reading, spending a lot of time with books, and often having extensive knowledge of literature.