a madman

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a madman" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is perceived as mentally unstable or irrational. Example: "The story revolves around a madman who believes he can control the weather with his mind."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A madman.

Independent

He's a madman now".

The New Yorker

"He's not a madman.

The New York Times

I'm like a madman!

Columbia University

He looks like a madman.

The New Yorker

He's a madman.

The Washington Post

He is a madman.

The New Yorker

He worked like a madman.

The New York Times - Magazine

LOS ANGELES — Aaron Axelrod is a madman.

The Washington Post

"Only a madman would call this creation!

The Guardian - Film

Does a madman enjoy his episodes?

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a madman" when referring to someone whose actions are governed by irrationality, mental instability or extreme passion. Consider the specific context to determine if a more precise term (e.g., "psychopath", "maniac") might be more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "a madman" in professional or academic writing unless the situation genuinely warrants such a strong term. Opt for more nuanced language like "irrational actor", "unstable individual", or "person experiencing a mental health crisis" to maintain objectivity and avoid sensationalism.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a madman" functions primarily as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It is used to categorize or describe an individual deemed mentally unstable, irrational, or dangerous. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Academia

12%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

2%

Science

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a madman" is a common descriptor used to label someone exhibiting extreme irrationality or instability. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely used. While versatile, its usage requires careful consideration due to its strong connotation. Analysis reveals its prevalent use in News & Media and Academia. When writing, consider alternatives like "unstable individual" in formal contexts to avoid sensationalism. Understand that the best alternative will depend on the context, such as "an insane person", "a lunatic", or "a deranged individual".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an insane person

Focuses on the medical aspect of madness, implying a diagnosed mental illness.

a lunatic

An older term, suggesting madness influenced by the moon, now often used figuratively.

a deranged individual

Highlights the disordered state of mind and potential unpredictability.

a maniac

Emphasizes the frenzied and possibly violent nature of the individual's behavior.

a psychopath

Refers to a person with a personality disorder characterized by antisocial behavior and lack of empathy.

a disturbed person

Indicates a mental or emotional imbalance, possibly leading to erratic actions.

a crazed individual

Suggests a state of wild and uncontrolled excitement or agitation.

an eccentric

Describes someone with unconventional or slightly strange behavior.

an oddball

A more informal term for someone peculiar or strange.

a crackpot

Describes a person with unconventional, nonsensical, or impractical ideas.

FAQs

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

You can use "a madman" to describe someone acting irrationally or dangerously. For example, "The dictator was seen by many as "a madman", willing to risk everything for power."

What are some alternatives to "a madman"?

Depending on the specific context, you can use alternatives like "an insane person", "a lunatic", or "a deranged individual".

When is it appropriate to use the term "a madman"?

It's appropriate when describing someone whose behavior is extremely irrational, unpredictable, and potentially dangerous. However, consider the impact of your words and whether a more sensitive term might be more suitable in certain situations.

Is there a difference between "a madman" and "a maniac"?

While both terms suggest irrationality, "a madman" generally refers to someone with mental instability, while "a maniac" often implies frenzied or violent behavior.