a human being

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'a human being' is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to refer to any individual person, for example: "Every human being deserves to be treated with respect."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

Be a human being.

The New York Times

I mean, I'm a human being.

The New York Times

I was no longer a human being.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"But I am a human being.

The New York Times

As a human being.

The Guardian - Opinion

Being a human being.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

A human is just another animal.

Los Angeles Times

A child is a whole human being.

The New York Times

To be a better human being.

Independent

John was a great human being.

The New York Times

A distinguished human being.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a human being" when you want to emphasize the inherent value, dignity, and rights of an individual, especially in contexts where these are being questioned or overlooked.

Common error

While "a human being" is generally acceptable, avoid overuse in formal writing where simpler terms like "person" or "individual" may be more appropriate. Using simpler terms maintains a professional tone and avoids sounding overly sentimental or dramatic.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "a human being" is as a noun phrase. It functions as a subject, object, or complement in a sentence, referring to a single person. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatically correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Wiki

8%

Academia

4%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Science

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a human being" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase that refers to a person, often highlighting their inherent worth and dignity. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and can be used in written English to refer to any individual person. Its usage spans various contexts, but it is particularly common in news and media. While "a human being" is generally acceptable, be mindful of the context. In some scenarios, simpler terms like "person" or "individual" might be more appropriate. When aiming for a more emphatic or philosophical statement, "a human being" is a good choice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an individual

Focuses on the singularity and distinctiveness of a person.

a person

A more general and common term for "a human being".

a fellow human

Stresses the sense of camaraderie and shared experience among people.

a member of the human race

Highlights the shared characteristics and belonging to the species.

a living soul

Highlights the spiritual and emotional aspects of being "a human being".

a sentient being

Focuses on the capacity for consciousness and awareness.

a mortal

Emphasizes the finite and transient nature of human life.

a thinking person

Highlights the intellectual capabilities of humans.

a rational being

Emphasizes the ability to reason and make logical decisions.

a natural person

Highlights the biological and inherent nature of humans, often used in legal contexts.

FAQs

How to use "a human being" in a sentence?

You can use "a human being" to emphasize the fundamental rights, dignity, or inherent worth of an individual. For example, "Every "a human being" deserves respect."

What can I say instead of "a human being"?

You can use alternatives like "an individual", "a person", or "a member of the human race" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "a human being" or "human being"?

"A human being" is grammatically correct when referring to one person. "Human being" can be used as a noun adjunct: "human being rights".

What's the difference between "a human being" and "an individual"?

While both terms refer to a person, ""a human being"" often carries a stronger connotation of inherent worth, rights and dignity. "An individual" simply emphasizes the person's distinctiveness or separateness.