a deranged person

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a deranged person" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is mentally unstable or exhibiting irrational behavior. Example: "The police were called to the scene after reports of a deranged person causing a disturbance in the neighborhood."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

If there is one thing that is guaranteed to get Democrats to the polls, it is the sight of Trump going around the country for the next three and half weeks inciting bigotry and racial hatred, launching personal attacks on his opponents, and generally acting like a deranged person.

The New Yorker

"There is always going to be somebody, a deranged person".

The New York Times

In the hands of a deranged person, a clip size of one is one too many.

The New York Times

She added, "This was probably a deranged person, so it can happen anywhere".

The New York Times

"This guy was a deranged person who just made that up; no way he was involved," Mr. Cohen said.

The New York Times

He got the St. Pat's post in 2002 after his predecessor was hurt wrestling a deranged person in the cathedral.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

The subject leads many to throw up their hands: how, short of creating a police state, can we prevent a lone deranged person from making a crude bomb and parking it somewhere?

The New York Times

After reports of Ms. Bacca's death circulated, Ms. Bacca's family and Italian and Turkish government officials immediately emphasized that the killing had been a cruel act by a possibly deranged person and could have happened almost anywhere.

The New York Times

Might all that attention inspire a similarly deranged person to commit a "copycat" crime?

HuffPost

Here's a mentally deranged person who had access to a gun that should not have had access to a gun," said Senator Tom Coburn on "Meet the Press".

The New York Times

Another of Lautenberg's bills would tighten a loophole in current law so a mentally deranged person who should not have access to guns could not go to a gun show and buy one without the regular security check.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a deranged person", consider the context and potential impact of your word choice. In sensitive contexts, prefer more neutral or clinically accurate language to avoid stigmatizing mental health conditions.

Common error

Avoid using "a deranged person" as a flippant or casual descriptor. This can perpetuate harmful stereotypes about mental illness. Use more descriptive and empathetic language when possible.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a deranged person" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "deranged" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "person". It identifies and describes an individual perceived to be mentally unstable or irrational. Ludwig AI confirms its usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a deranged person" is a common descriptor, primarily used in News & Media, to label someone exhibiting signs of mental instability or irrationality. While grammatically sound, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, its usage requires sensitivity due to potential stigmatization of mental illness. Alternatives like "an unstable individual" or "a mentally ill person" may be more appropriate in formal or empathetic contexts. The linguistic analysis reveals that the phrase functions as a noun phrase, its primary purpose being to characterize an individual's mental state, and its register leaning towards neutral to informal.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an unstable individual

Focuses on the lack of stability in a person's mental state.

a mentally ill person

Refers directly to a person suffering from a mental illness.

a disturbed individual

Emphasizes the person's troubled mental state.

a psychotic individual

Indicates a person experiencing psychosis.

a person with diminished mental capacity

Highlights reduced cognitive abilities.

someone with a mental disorder

Uses broader term encompassing different mental health conditions.

a person suffering from a mental condition

Focuses on the suffering caused by the mental condition.

an individual with a psychiatric problem

Emphasizes the psychiatric nature of the issue.

a person with impaired mental faculties

Highlights that the mental abilities are weakened.

a person exhibiting erratic behavior

Focuses on the unpredictable actions of the person.

FAQs

What does "a deranged person" mean?

The phrase "a deranged person" describes someone whose behavior is considered irrational or mentally unstable. However, it's important to note that using this term can be stigmatizing, and more neutral language may be preferable in many situations.

What are some alternatives to "a deranged person"?

Consider using alternatives like "an unstable individual", "a mentally ill person", or "a disturbed individual" depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use the phrase "a deranged person" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, the phrase "a deranged person" may be considered informal or stigmatizing in formal writing. Opt for more precise and neutral language to maintain a professional tone.

How can I use the term "a deranged person" without stigmatizing mental illness?

When referring to someone's mental state, focus on observable behaviors and symptoms rather than using labels like "deranged". Emphasize empathy and understanding to avoid perpetuating negative stereotypes.