a patient man

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a patient man" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is able to wait calmly without getting frustrated or upset. Example: "In a world that often demands instant results, being a patient man can be a valuable trait."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Arts

Politics

Literature

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

He's a patient man".

The New Yorker

He is a patient man.

The New Yorker

"I'm a patient man.

The Guardian

"David is a patient man.

The New York Times - Magazine

"I'm a patient man," he said.

The New Yorker

"But he is not a patient man.

The New York Times

General Franks is not a patient man.

The New York Times

He surely is a patient man.

The Guardian - Sport

Tuffy Rhodes describes himself as a patient man.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

The Strictly Come Dancing: It Takes Two host has in the past paid tribute to 53-year-old Cook as "a very patient man", following a number of rocky patches in their relationship.

The Guardian - Music

He's having a good season, is a very patient man and has been playing well on the PGA Tour.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone as "a patient man", ensure that the context highlights situations where patience is particularly relevant or tested. This adds depth to the characterization and illustrates the person's ability to handle delays, frustrations, or challenges with composure.

Common error

Be careful not to portray "a patient man" as passive or lacking assertiveness. Patience should be seen as a virtue that complements strength and wisdom, not as a substitute for action or decisiveness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a patient man" functions primarily as an adjectival phrase modifying the noun "man". It ascribes a specific quality or characteristic to the individual, indicating their capacity for tolerance and composure. As shown by Ludwig, it’s a common descriptor.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Sports

10%

Arts

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a patient man" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to describe someone who exhibits calmness and tolerance, as indicated by Ludwig. It is appropriate for various contexts, particularly in news, sports, and arts, and carries a neutral tone. When using this phrase, ensure it highlights situations where patience is relevant and avoid portraying patience as a sign of weakness. Consider alternatives like "a tolerant individual" or "an understanding person" for nuanced meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a tolerant individual

Focuses on tolerance as a characteristic, implying acceptance and understanding of others or situations.

an understanding person

Highlights comprehension and empathy as key traits, suggesting someone who can appreciate different perspectives.

a long-suffering fellow

Emphasizes endurance and resilience in the face of adversity or difficulty.

a man of forbearance

Implies restraint and self-control, particularly in the face of provocation or delay.

a stoic character

Suggests emotional resilience and the ability to withstand hardship without complaint.

someone with fortitude

Highlights courage and resilience in the face of pain or adversity.

a composed gentleman

Focuses on calmness and self-possession, suggesting someone who remains level-headed under pressure.

a man with staying power

Emphasizes the ability to persist and endure over time, often in challenging circumstances.

a persistent soul

Highlights the trait of continuing firmly or obstinately in a course of action in spite of difficulty or opposition.

a restful spirit

Evokes a sense of tranquility and inner peace, suggesting someone who is not easily agitated.

FAQs

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

You can use "a patient man" to describe someone who exhibits calmness and tolerance in the face of delays, difficulties, or provocations. For example, "Despite the constant setbacks, he remained "a patient man", always seeking a constructive solution".

What are some alternative ways to describe someone as "a patient man"?

Alternatives include "a tolerant individual", "an understanding person", or "a man of forbearance". Each emphasizes a slightly different aspect of patience, such as acceptance, empathy, or restraint.

Is it always a positive trait to be "a patient man"?

While patience is generally a virtue, it's important to consider the context. Excessive patience without action can sometimes be detrimental. It's essential to balance patience with assertiveness and decisiveness when necessary.

How does "a patient man" differ from someone who is simply passive?

"A patient man" actively chooses to remain calm and composed, often while working towards a goal or understanding a situation. Passivity, on the other hand, implies a lack of engagement or effort. Patience involves intentional self-control, while passivity suggests indifference or resignation.