a straight arrow

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a straight arrow" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe someone who is honest, straightforward, and morally upright. Example: "Everyone in the office knows that Sarah is a straight arrow; she always tells the truth and never engages in office gossip."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Reference

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

"Bruce is a straight arrow.

The New York Times

He was a straight arrow.

The New York Times

"He is ethically a straight arrow.

The New York Times

Mr. Dixon is, by all accounts, a straight arrow.

The New York Times

Nixon was a straight arrow and a scold.

The New Yorker

Marcus was a bit rum, but surely a straight arrow.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

20 human-written examples

He came across as a straight- arrow type but must have known that MMAR wasn't entirely straight.

Forbes

Both physics and engineering are still largely "pale and male," populated by straight-A, straight-arrow students who take the standard, well-trod road.

Los Angeles Times

Duffy is not a straight-arrow of a person, himself.

The Guardian - Books

Steele was a personable man, and he gave the impression of being a straight-arrow type.

The New Yorker

The man, a straight-arrow type, was mortified and didn't see any humor in the situation.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a straight arrow" to describe someone known for their honesty and ethical conduct in professional or personal settings.

Common error

Avoid using "a straight arrow" sarcastically or ironically; it generally carries a positive connotation of honesty and integrity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a straight arrow" functions as an adjective phrase, typically modifying a noun or pronoun to describe someone's character. Ludwig shows it's often used to denote honesty and integrity.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Reference

10%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a straight arrow" is a commonly used adjective phrase to describe someone who is honest, ethical, and reliable. It frequently appears in news and media contexts, as evidenced by the examples from Ludwig. While generally considered grammatically correct, it's important to use the phrase with its positive connotation in mind. Alternative phrases like "an honest individual" or "a person of integrity" can be used in more formal settings. As Ludwig AI suggests, understanding and correctly applying such phrases enhances clarity and impact in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an honest individual

Replaces the metaphorical "arrow" with a direct descriptor of honesty.

a person of integrity

Focuses on the inherent quality of integrity rather than a directional metaphor.

an upright citizen

Highlights the individual's adherence to societal norms and ethical standards.

a morally sound person

Emphasizes the person's strong moral compass and ethical decision-making.

an ethical individual

Directly points out the person's commitment to ethical behavior.

a person of principle

Highlights the individual's commitment to strong principles.

a stand-up person

Uses a colloquial term to describe someone reliable and honest.

a trustworthy individual

Focuses on the reliability and dependability aspect of the person.

a law-abiding citizen

Highlights the person's compliance with laws and regulations.

a model of rectitude

A more formal way of saying someone is a good moral example

FAQs

How can I use "a straight arrow" in a sentence?

You can use "a straight arrow" to describe someone who is honest and follows the rules. For example, "John is known as "a straight arrow" in the office because he never cuts corners."

What does it mean to describe someone as "a straight arrow"?

Describing someone as "a straight arrow" means they are honest, ethical, and reliable. It implies that they are trustworthy and can be counted on to do the right thing.

What are some alternatives to saying someone is "a straight arrow"?

Alternatives include "an honest individual", "a person of integrity", or "an upright citizen". Each of these phrases conveys a similar meaning of moral uprightness and honesty.

Is it appropriate to use the term "a straight arrow" in formal writing?

While "a straight arrow" is widely understood, it may be more appropriate to use a more formal alternative like "an ethical individual" or "a person of principle" in highly formal contexts, such as academic papers or legal documents.