a breed apart

USAGE SUMMARY

"a breed apart" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to someone or something that is unique or distinct from others, e.g. "She was a breed apart from her peers in her passion for learning."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

You're a breed apart.

The New Yorker

Arroyo seemed a breed apart.

The New York Times

Trump is a breed apart.

The Washington Post

Texans — they were a breed apart.

The New Yorker

"Transport for a breed apart.

The Guardian - Tech

But baseball supporters are a breed apart.

The Economist

Among musicians, drummers are a breed apart.

The New York Times - Books

"Internationals are a breed apart," Kaldor says.

The Guardian

New Yorkers may be a breed apart.

The New York Times

And Ruby is a breed apart.

The New York Times

"Steelworkers are a breed apart," he said.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a breed apart" to emphasize that someone or something is distinctly different and often superior in a specific context. This implies a notable deviation from the norm.

Common error

While "a breed apart" is widely accepted, avoid overuse in highly formal or academic writing where a more precise or technical term might be more appropriate. Consider alternatives like "unique", "distinct", or "exceptional" depending on the intended nuance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a breed apart" primarily functions as a predicative adjective phrase. It modifies a noun or pronoun, attributing to it the quality of being unique or distinct. Ludwig confirms its usability and correctness, indicating its established role in English grammar.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Academia

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a breed apart" is a widely used and grammatically correct phrase to describe something or someone unique and distinct. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is suitable for various contexts, particularly in news and media. While versatile, more formal settings might benefit from alternatives like "unique" or "distinct" for added precision. The phrase's effectiveness lies in its ability to emphasize exceptional qualities, setting the subject apart from the norm. Its frequent usage across reputable sources affirms its status as a reliable and understandable expression in English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Unique

Highlights the singularity and distinctiveness of someone or something.

One of a kind

Highlights the uniqueness and rarity of someone or something, suggesting there is nothing else quite like it.

Distinct

Emphasizes the clear and recognizable differences that set something apart.

Set apart from the rest

Emphasizes the act of being distinguished or differentiated from others, often due to specific qualities or characteristics.

Incomparable

Directly states that something cannot be compared to others, implying its exceptional status.

Unmatched

Suggests that something has no equal in terms of quality or achievement.

In a league of their own

Focuses on superiority and being incomparable, emphasizing a higher level of performance or quality.

Peerless

Implies having no equal or rival, suggesting ultimate superiority in a particular domain.

A different animal

Uses metaphorical language to suggest a fundamental difference in nature or character.

Stands alone

Highlights the isolation and independence of something, emphasizing its self-sufficiency and lack of peers.

FAQs

How can I use "a breed apart" in a sentence?

You can use "a breed apart" to describe someone or something that is distinctly different and often superior. For example, "The Marine Corps has always considered itself "a breed apart"".

What are some synonyms for "a breed apart"?

Some synonyms include "unique", "distinct", "one of a kind", and "in a league of their own". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it correct to say someone is "a breed apart"?

Yes, it is correct. Ludwig AI confirms that "a breed apart" is a commonly used and understandable phrase to describe someone or something exceptional.

What is the difference between "a breed apart" and "different"?

"A breed apart" implies a more significant and often qualitative difference, suggesting superiority or exceptionalism. "Different" is a more general term that simply indicates a distinction without necessarily implying superiority.