a golden boy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a golden boy" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a young man who is exceptionally talented, favored, or successful, often in a particular field or context. Example: "After winning the championship, he was hailed as the golden boy of the team, admired by fans and teammates alike."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

Just a month ago, Rob Porter was considered a golden boy.

Vice

Boettcher started out as a golden boy.

The New York Times - Magazine

John Lindsay was a golden boy.

The New York Times - Magazine

I've been a golden boy for too long".

The Guardian - Music

But Mr. Greenleaf, 32, was not only a golden boy.

The New York Times

In other words, Trank had become a golden boy.

The Guardian - Film

"A golden boy, on the other hand, is one who is charming, lucky and talented.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

Mr. Stiefel and Mr. Belotserkovsky are both blonder this season than in the past, and Mr. Stiefel was a golden boy-prince.

The New York Times - Arts

He's a golden-boy politician staying at a very nice hotel.

The New York Times - Arts

Tom Grunick William Hurtt) is a golden-boy news anchor, but he knows he doesn't deserve his success.

The New York Times

It was developed by the producer J. J. Abrams, who now enjoys a golden-boy reputation among sci-fi fans as a creator of "Lost".

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a golden boy" to describe someone who is not only successful but also enjoys a high level of admiration or preferential treatment. This phrase carries a connotation of privilege or special favor.

Common error

While "a golden boy" is a recognized idiom, overuse can make your writing sound unoriginal. Consider using more specific and descriptive language to convey the person's qualities and achievements instead of relying solely on this phrase.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a golden boy" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject complement or appositive. It identifies or describes a young man who is highly successful, talented, and often enjoys preferential treatment. Ludwig's AI analysis confirms its correct usage in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Formal & Business

3%

Science

2%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a golden boy" is a noun phrase used to describe a young man who is exceptionally talented, successful, and often favored. As Ludwig indicates, it's grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in News & Media. While generally positive, the phrase can sometimes carry a connotation of privilege or favoritism. Consider alternatives like "a favored son" or "a rising star" to fine-tune the specific nuance you wish to convey. When using the expression, consider overuse and context as it is also important not to rely on cliche language, which Ludwig highlights as well.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a fair-haired boy

Similar to "a golden boy", suggesting someone who is favored or enjoys preferential treatment.

a blue-eyed boy

Similar to "a golden boy" and "fair-haired boy", implying favoritism.

a favored son

Emphasizes the aspect of being treated with special preference or affection.

a rising star

Highlights the aspect of increasing prominence and future success.

a wunderkind

Refers to someone who achieves great success at a young age.

a successful young man

A more straightforward description of someone who has achieved success early in life.

a talented individual

Focuses on the possession of exceptional abilities or skills.

a bright spark

Highlights intelligence and potential.

a gifted person

Highlights innate talent or aptitude.

an accomplished man

Emphasizes achievements and expertise.

FAQs

How can I use "a golden boy" in a sentence?

You can use "a golden boy" to describe a young man who is exceptionally talented, successful, and often favored. For example, "He was hailed as "a golden boy" after leading the team to victory."

What are some alternatives to "a golden boy"?

Alternatives include "a favored son", "a rising star", or "a wunderkind", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "golden boy" always a positive term?

While generally positive, "a golden boy" can sometimes imply that someone's success is due to favoritism rather than merit. The context determines whether it's purely complimentary or carries a hint of skepticism.

What characteristics define "a golden boy"?

Typically, a "golden boy" is characterized by talent, success, charisma, and often, a degree of privilege or special attention. They are often seen as having a bright future and being destined for great things.