a heathen

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a heathen" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to someone who does not belong to a widely held religion, particularly in a context that implies a lack of belief in a particular faith. Example: "In ancient times, the villagers viewed outsiders as heathens, believing they were unworthy of their sacred traditions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Why not make a heathen racket?

The New Yorker

mustard was a heathen spice . . .

The New Yorker

I'm a heathen like my detective, Charlie.

The Guardian - Books

You intend to bring your child up a heathen?

The New Yorker

So what's a heathen to do in 2009?

The New York Times - Science

I'd skip Catholicism and plunge directly into being a heathen.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

One object of lust is a "heathen child"; another is a "worm tamer".

The New Yorker

She also wrote a novel, Confessions to a Heathen Idol (1906).

Encyclopedia Britannica

Mr Berry played down suggestions that he had been appointed because Telford was a heathen wasteland.

The Guardian

But such meaning and contentment does not inevitably follow from becoming a heathen.

The Guardian - Opinion

Mr. Bush has been portrayed as a heathen who saw the light at age 40.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a heathen", be mindful of its historical and potentially offensive connotations. Consider the audience and context to avoid causing offense or misunderstanding.

Common error

Avoid using "a heathen" as a casual insult or derogatory term. It carries historical baggage and can be deeply offensive to individuals with non-traditional beliefs or no religious beliefs at all.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a heathen" functions primarily as a noun phrase, identifying an individual who does not subscribe to a particular religious belief, often a dominant or established one. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is usable in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Science

3%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a heathen" is a frequently used noun phrase that labels someone as not belonging to a mainstream religion. Ludwig AI analysis confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and appears in diverse contexts, predominantly in News & Media, Encyclopedias, and Wiki. While grammatically sound, using this phrase requires sensitivity due to its potentially offensive connotations. Alternatives such as ""a non-believer"" or ""a non-religious person"" may be more appropriate depending on the context. When you write, be mindful of the historical and potentially derogatory implications to ensure respectful and accurate communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a non-religious person

Neutral and straightforward description.

a person of no faith

Clearly indicates the absence of religious affiliation.

an unbeliever

Directly states the absence of belief.

an irreligious person

Highlights a lack of religious observance or adherence.

a non-believer

Focuses on the lack of religious belief.

a secular individual

Highlights the separation from religious influence.

an infidel

Often carries a more negative connotation, implying opposition to a dominant religion.

a pagan

Refers to someone who follows a non-Abrahamic religion or ancient folk religion.

a free thinker

Emphasizes independent thought and questioning of dogma.

a skeptic

Suggests doubt and questioning of religious claims.

FAQs

How can I use "a heathen" in a sentence?

You can use "a heathen" to describe someone who doesn't adhere to a widely recognized religion. For example: "In the past, people who didn't attend church were often labeled as "a heathen"."

What's a less offensive way to say "a heathen"?

Consider using more neutral terms like "a non-believer", "a non-religious person", or "a secular individual" to avoid potential offense. Context is key.

Is it correct to use "heathen" to describe someone's culture?

While "heathen" can be used to describe a culture, it's often seen as derogatory and outdated. It's better to describe the culture using more specific and respectful terms related to their traditions and beliefs. For example, you could say "their culture is deeply rooted in pagan traditions" instead of "their culture is "a heathen" culture".

What is the difference between "a heathen" and "an infidel"?

"A heathen" generally refers to someone who doesn't follow a major religion, while "an infidel" specifically describes someone who doesn't believe in a particular religion, often with a negative connotation from the perspective of that religion.