a very humbling thing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a very humbling thing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an experience or realization that makes one feel modest or less important in comparison to something greater. Example: "Winning the award was a very humbling thing, as it reminded me of all the support I received from my team."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

"That's a very humbling thing".

The New York Times

And wine is a very humbling thing".

The New Yorker

Having a disease is a very humbling thing".

The New York Times

It's a very humbling thing to see that the orchestra can go on without you.

The New York Times

It was a very humbling thing to see.

TechCrunch

Having first encountered that kind of actor when I was 15, from a long-playing record in the school English cupboard, to be at this point where you can be, in some way, amongst their number, it's a very humbling thing.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

"It was very humbling thing for him to come back and say, 'Put me in, Coach,'" Baffert said.

Los Angeles Times

And simply because it is about black women — not just blacks and not just women — it is a very humbling but inspiring thing for a white man to experience".

The New Yorker

"... it was a very humbling experience to see the different things our football club did, that other football clubs and the AFL did and other players took upon themselves to show their support.

The Guardian - Sport

Golf is a very humbling sport.

The New York Times

"It's a very humbling experience".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider stronger synonyms like "chastening", "sobering", or "eye-opening" if you want to emphasize a particular aspect of the experience, such as correction, serious reflection, or revelation.

Common error

Avoid using "a very humbling thing" too frequently in your writing. While grammatically correct, overuse can make your prose sound repetitive. Vary your language by using synonyms or rephrasing your sentences to express similar ideas in different ways.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a very humbling thing" functions as a subjective complement, typically following a linking verb (e.g., "is", "was"). It describes and characterizes a preceding noun or pronoun, attributing the quality of being humbling to it. Ludwig AI provides examples demonstrating this function in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a very humbling thing" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe an experience or situation that fosters modesty and reduces one's sense of self-importance. According to Ludwig, it is most commonly found in News & Media contexts and carries a neutral to professional register. While the phrase is valid, writers should be mindful of overuse and consider stronger synonyms depending on the nuance they wish to convey. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's correct usage and provides examples from authoritative sources, aiding in understanding its practical application.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a truly humbling experience

Adds the adverb "truly" for emphasis.

a deeply humbling thing

Replaces "very" with "deeply" to intensify the feeling.

a remarkably humbling thing

Replaces "very" with "remarkably" for similar meaning with more emphasis.

a very chastening experience

Replaces "humbling" with "chastening", emphasizing a corrective or disciplining effect.

a very sobering realization

Substitutes "humbling thing" with a "sobering realization", highlighting a moment of serious reflection.

a very deflating moment

Uses "deflating" instead of "humbling", suggesting a reduction in ego or confidence.

a lesson in humility

Frames the situation as a learning experience in humbleness.

an eye-opening experience

Highlights the revelatory aspect, implying a shift in perspective.

a reminder of one's limitations

Focuses on the recognition of personal boundaries and capabilities.

a perspective-altering event

Emphasizes the shift in viewpoint as a result of the experience.

FAQs

How can I use "a very humbling thing" in a sentence?

Use "a very humbling thing" to describe an experience or situation that makes you feel modest or reminds you of your limitations. For example, "Losing the competition was "a very humbling thing", as it showed me areas where I needed to improve."

What can I say instead of "a very humbling thing"?

You can use alternatives such as "a truly humbling experience", "a sobering realization", or "a lesson in humility" depending on the specific context.

What does it mean when something is described as "a very humbling thing"?

It means that the experience or situation makes you feel more modest, aware of your limitations, or appreciative of what you have. It often involves a sense of perspective and a recognition that you are not as important or powerful as you might have thought.

Is it always negative when something is "a very humbling thing"?

Not necessarily. While it can arise from setbacks or failures, ""a very humbling thing"" can also be a positive experience that fosters gratitude, empathy, and a more balanced perspective. It depends on the context and how you interpret the situation.