a man apart

USAGE SUMMARY

"a man apart" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who stands out or is unique in some way. Here is an example: John was always a man apart in the small town where he grew up. He was the only one who pursued higher education and had big dreams for the future.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Mandela was a man apart.

The New Yorker

He relished being a man apart.

The New York Times

He was an artist, and a man, apart.

The New Yorker

Diesel followed with another action movie, xXx (2002), and the crime drama A Man Apart (2003).

Encyclopedia Britannica

That made Bo Xilai, the shooting star in China's political firmament, a man apart.

The Guardian

And — at least on the surface — he was not a man apart.

The Washington Post

Alberto," a man apart among the 15,000 foreigners who live and work in this city.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

Technique can be coached but fostering the kind of mentality that sets a last man apart from a leader in defence depends on a myriad of circumstances - it is little wonder Ederson is so coveted among Europe's top clubs.

The Telegraph

It could be the campest film made by a straight man, apart from Baz Luhrmann's films of course.

The Guardian - Film

That we will recognize ourselves and be of best service when mankind finds a space together, NOT MAN APART.

Huffington Post

In Johnstown, though, a man stood apart from the huddle of protesters.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a man apart" to portray a character or individual who is intentionally or unintentionally separate from mainstream society, often due to unique qualities, beliefs, or circumstances.

Common error

Avoid using "a man apart" to describe someone who is actively collaborating or deeply embedded within a group. The phrase implies a degree of isolation or distinction that is contradictory to teamwork.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a man apart" functions primarily as a noun phrase that serves as a descriptor. It identifies an individual who is distinct or separate from others, highlighting their unique qualities or circumstances. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is perfectly grammatical and appropriate for use.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

87%

Encyclopedias

4%

Science

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

2%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a man apart" is used to describe someone who is distinct, isolated, or unconventional. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's a grammatically sound and versatile phrase, found most commonly in news and media. While the phrase implies some degree of isolation, it's not necessarily negative and can signify independence or uniqueness. When using this phrase, consider the context to ensure it accurately reflects the intended meaning of distinctiveness or separation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

standing apart from the crowd

Expresses the idea of being different and not fitting in.

an outsider

Highlights exclusion from a group or society.

a nonconformist

Stresses the rejection of societal norms and expectations.

an individualist

Focuses on independence of thought and action, rather than isolation.

a solitary figure

Implies a preference for being alone and independent.

a maverick

Suggests independence and a willingness to defy convention.

a loner

Emphasizes solitude and lack of social connection.

a singular person

Emphasizes the exceptional and unique nature of the individual.

a unique individual

Highlights distinctiveness and originality.

one of a kind

Highlights the uniqueness and irreplaceability of the individual.

FAQs

How can I use "a man apart" in a sentence?

You can use "a man apart" to describe someone who is distinct from others, often due to their unique qualities or circumstances. For example, "He was "a man apart", preferring solitude to the company of others."

What does it mean to be "a man apart"?

To be "a man apart" means to be different or separate from others, often due to unique qualities, beliefs, or circumstances. It suggests a degree of isolation or distinction.

What are some synonyms for "a man apart"?

Synonyms for "a man apart" include "an individualist", "an outsider", or "a nonconformist", depending on the specific context you want to convey.

Is it always positive to be "a man apart"?

Not necessarily. While being "a man apart" can signify strength and independence, it can also imply loneliness or alienation. The connotation depends on the context and the reasons for the separation.