a completely different person

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a completely different person" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to emphasize that the subject has changed in some significant way. For example: "After coming back from that life-changing trip, she was a completely different person."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I was a completely different person and I noticed the difference from before.

BMC Psychiatry

"He's a completely different person".

The New York Times

I'm Matthew Hoggard, a completely different person.

Independent

A completely different person, it seemed.

The New York Times

I'm a completely different person now.

The Guardian - Film

He can become a completely different person.

The Guardian - Film

"I felt like a completely different person.

The New York Times

"I came home a completely different person".

The Guardian

He genuinely looks like a completely different person now.

The Guardian - Sport

"But she is a completely different person," Mr. Carbonetti said.

The New York Times

"I am a completely different person now," she says.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a completely different person" to emphasize a dramatic change in someone's character, appearance, or behavior due to a significant event or personal transformation.

Common error

Avoid using "a completely different person" to describe minor changes. This phrase is most effective when indicating profound, recognizable transformations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a completely different person" functions as a subject complement, describing the state or condition of the subject after a transformation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability for denoting significant personal change.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Science

4%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a completely different person" is a powerful way to describe a significant transformation in someone's life. As verified by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically sound and frequently used across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While it's essential to use this phrase judiciously, reserving it for substantial changes, the numerous examples showcase its effectiveness in conveying dramatic personal transformations. Consider alternatives like "an entirely new individual" or "a transformed character" to fine-tune your message and provide nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an entirely new individual

Emphasizes the novelty and distinctiveness of the person post-transformation.

a transformed character

Highlights the change in personality and traits.

a changed being

Focuses on the altered state of existence.

another version of themselves

Indicates that the person is now a different iteration of who they once were.

a revamped personality

Suggests a significant overhaul of one's characteristics.

an unrecognizable self

Stresses how difficult it is to relate the current person to their past self.

someone reborn

Implies a fresh start and a radical shift in identity.

a new identity

Highlights a complete overhaul of one's persona.

a far cry from their former self

Illustrates how much someone has changed from who they used to be.

not the person they used to be

Simply states the person is no longer the same.

FAQs

How can I use "a completely different person" in a sentence?

You can use "a completely different person" to describe a significant change in someone's personality, appearance, or behavior. For example, "After years of therapy, he became "a completely different person"."

What are some alternatives to "a completely different person"?

Some alternatives include "an entirely new individual", "a transformed character", or "someone reborn". Choose the one that best fits the context of your sentence.

Is it always appropriate to say someone is "a completely different person"?

No, it's most appropriate when the change is significant and noticeable. Using it for minor changes can be an exaggeration. Consider if "not the person they used to be" would be a more appropriate phrasing.

What does it imply when someone is described as "a completely different person"?

It implies a fundamental change, often suggesting a before-and-after scenario where the individual's traits, values, or behaviors have undergone a substantial transformation. This might be due to trauma, personal growth, or other life-altering experiences.