a special individual

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a special individual" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to someone who is unique or has qualities that set them apart from others, often in a positive context. Example: "In our community, she is truly a special individual, always going out of her way to help others."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

"It takes a special individual," Sellers said.

The New York Times

Everyday I think of what a special individual and son you were.

The New York Times

He added: "I understand that something like this provides a sense of connectedness to a special individual.

The Guardian

Value is created by the context because, as a gift from a special individual, it is unique and thus valued differently from otherwise identical goods.

The Economist

What a tribute to you to have forged such long lasting ties and to continue to be surrounded by people who genuinely admire, care and delight in our connection to such a special individual.

The New York Times

"It's not that Leo himself was such a special individual," he added, "as it is what he stood for". The leader of an agency that competes fiercely with Burnett enumerated those values.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

Such approaches have a special individual-oriented focus that community-based DRR interventions have not necessarily had.

International Journal of Disaster Risk Science

Zachary Brill has distinguished himself across all of his studies, and members of the Chemistry faculty report that he is a "truly special individual" who has made a significant contribution to research and citizenship in the department.

Columbia University

It takes a very special individual to work in this field.

The New York Times

"You Pat, are a very special individual who at all times and every where gave her strength to the weak, her substance to the poor, her sympathy to the suffering, and her heart to God.

The New York Times

DJ TW was a rather special individual who for some odd reason didn't get the memo that he was not a composer but in fact, a DJ.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a special individual" to positively highlight someone's unique qualities or contributions.

Common error

Avoid using "a special individual" in predictable or overly sentimental situations. Opt for more specific language to convey genuine appreciation and avoid sounding insincere.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a special individual" functions primarily as a descriptive noun phrase. It serves to characterize a person by highlighting their unique and positive qualities. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

30%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a special individual" is a commonly used phrase to describe someone with unique and positive qualities. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in a variety of contexts. The phrase appears most frequently in News & Media, Science, and Academic writing. While versatile, it's crucial to use it thoughtfully, avoiding clichés for more impactful and sincere communication. Alternatives such as "a remarkable person" or "an exceptional individual" can be considered based on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A remarkable individual

Replaces "special" with "remarkable", emphasizing the individual's noteworthiness.

An extraordinary individual

Emphasizes that the person is beyond the ordinary.

An exceptional person

Substitutes "individual" with the more common "person" and "special" with "exceptional", highlighting outstanding qualities.

A unique individual

Emphasizes the distinctiveness and singularity of the person.

A one-of-a-kind person

Informal expression stressing the person's uniqueness and rarity.

A singular individual

Highlights the uniqueness of the person.

A gifted individual

Focuses on the person's natural talents or abilities.

A rare individual

Stresses that the person is not often found.

A talented person

Highlights the person's skill and proficiency in a particular area.

A distinctive person

Focuses on the easily recognizable characteristics of the individual.

FAQs

How can I use "a special individual" in a sentence?

You can use "a special individual" to describe someone who possesses unique qualities or talents. For instance: "She is "a special individual" who always goes the extra mile to help others."

What are some alternatives to "a special individual"?

Alternatives include "a remarkable person", "an exceptional individual", or "a unique person". The best choice depends on the specific context and the qualities you want to emphasize.

Is it better to say "special person" or "special individual"?

Both "special person" and "special individual" are acceptable. "Special individual" might sound slightly more formal, while "special person" is more commonly used in everyday conversation.

What's the difference between describing someone as "special" versus "unique"?

While both terms highlight positive attributes, "special" often implies that someone is valued and appreciated, whereas "unique" emphasizes their distinctiveness and one-of-a-kind nature.