a greater being

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a greater being" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing spirituality, religion, or philosophical concepts regarding a higher power or entity. Example: "Many people find comfort in the belief that a greater being watches over them during difficult times."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

He suggested that language is like a game which everyone participates in and is played by a greater being.

Wikipedia

It fascinates me that all cultures, evolving independently, have similar models of mankind's origins, of a Greater Being, of the flood, and so on.

Huffington Post

He stated that, although it may be accepted that it would be a greater achievement for a non-existent creator to create something than a creator who exists, there is no reason to assume that a non-existent creator would be a greater being.

Wikipedia

Here, the artist seems to be referring to a belief in a greater being, and the cleansing properties of such a belief.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

John was a great human being.

The New York Times

He has been a great champion, is a great champion.

The Guardian - Sport

A greater transfusion was required.

Independent

But a greater attraction is the view.

Independent

He felt a greater crackdown was needed.

The New York Times

Measurements with a greater variation were repeated.

Plosone

Above all a great human being.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context and audience when using the phrase. In academic or philosophical writing, it can refer to a theoretical construct, while in religious contexts, it often implies a personal relationship with the divine.

Common error

Avoid using "a greater being" in situations where a simple superlative adjective would suffice. For example, instead of saying "He aspired to be a greater being in the company," use "He aspired to be a better employee."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a greater being" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig examples show it referring to concepts of a higher power, deity, or creator.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

50%

Science

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a greater being" refers to a higher power or divine entity, often used in philosophical or religious contexts. Ludwig AI indicates it is grammatically correct, although relatively rare in occurrence. It functions as a noun phrase and its purpose is to denote or discuss the existence of a superior entity. Given its neutral to formal register, it's suitable for serious discussions about belief or spirituality. When using this phrase, consider the audience and context to ensure clarity and avoid potential misunderstandings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a higher power

Focuses on the power aspect rather than existence or nature.

a supreme being

Emphasizes the ultimate authority and rank.

a divine entity

Highlights the divine or godlike nature.

a transcendent force

Suggests a force beyond ordinary human experience.

a cosmic consciousness

Implies an all-encompassing awareness.

a creative intelligence

Stresses the intelligent design aspect.

the ultimate reality

Positions the entity as the fundamental truth.

a universal spirit

Refers to a spirit present throughout the universe.

the ground of being

Highlights the foundational nature of existence.

an overarching presence

Focuses on the pervasive influence.

FAQs

How can I use "a greater being" in a sentence?

You can use "a greater being" to refer to a higher power or divine entity, as in, "Many find solace in believing that "a greater being" watches over them." Alternatively, it can describe something superior or more significant than others.

What is another way to say "a greater being"?

Alternatives include "a higher power", "a supreme being", or "a divine entity", depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a greater being" in formal writing?

Yes, the phrase "a greater being" can be appropriate in formal writing, especially when discussing philosophical, theological, or comparative religious topics. However, consider your audience and the specific purpose of your writing.

What is the difference between "a greater being" and "God"?

"A greater being" is a more general term that can refer to any higher power or deity, without specifying a particular religion. "God" typically refers to the specific deity in monotheistic religions like Christianity, Islam, and Judaism. Using "a greater being" can be more inclusive in interfaith contexts.