a wiry man

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a wiry man" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a man who is lean and strong, often implying agility and fitness. Example: "Despite his small stature, he was a wiry man, capable of surprising strength and speed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

A wiry man with white hair and glasses opened it.

The New Yorker

He is a wiry man, rippling with electricity.

The Guardian - Opinion

He is a wiry man, with white hair, blue eyes, and a red nose.

The New Yorker

They first went to Mr. Williams's room, into which a wiry man had just scurried.

The New York Times

He sat alone, a wiry man with glasses and salt-and-pepper stubble.

The New Yorker

A wiry man with a gaunt face, Raja had come on the hajj to pray for a better-paying job.

The New Yorker

On the Boardwalk, a wiry man in wraparound sunglasses talked emphatically to himself.

The New York Times

White, a wiry man in his sixties, wears Woolrich sweaters and speaks in a resonant bass.

The New Yorker

"To heck with that!" said Dean Heitner, a wiry man with a thick mustache.

The New York Times

It is run by Spalding's brother, Nathanael, a wiry man of few words.

The New York Times - Style

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

The mechanic is a tall wiry man with a youthful face and a ready smile.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a wiry man" to convey a sense of lean strength and agility, particularly when describing someone who may not appear outwardly muscular but possesses surprising power or endurance.

Common error

Avoid using "a wiry man" in overly formal or academic writing, as it can sometimes sound informal or cliché. Opt for more precise or descriptive language when appropriate for the tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a wiry man" functions as a descriptive noun phrase, modifying an unspecified male subject. The adjective "wiry" indicates a physique characterized by lean strength and agility. Ludwig examples confirm this usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a wiry man" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to depict a man with a lean yet strong physique, implying agility and resilience. As Ludwig AI confirms, this descriptor is widely found in various News & Media sources. While predominantly neutral in register, it's advisable to consider a more precise description in formal contexts. Alternative phrases include "a lean man" or "a sinewy man", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Understanding these subtleties will enhance your writing and ensure accurate portrayal.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a tough, wiry man

Adds an element of toughness or resilience to the description.

a strong, lean man

Combines the concepts of strength and leanness explicitly.

a sinewy man

Similar to "wiry" but puts more emphasis on visible muscle and tendons.

a wiry figure

Shifts the focus from the man himself to his overall physical form or silhouette.

a lean man

Focuses on the leanness of the man's physique, omitting the implication of strength.

a compact man

Emphasizes a small and efficiently built physique, implying strength within a smaller frame.

a nimble man

Highlights agility and quickness, which are often associated with a wiry build.

a slender man

Emphasizes slenderness and slight build, potentially lacking the connotation of strength.

an athletic man

Highlights athleticism but may not necessarily imply a lean build.

a fit man

Implies general fitness without specifically describing body type.

FAQs

How can I describe someone similar to "a wiry man"?

You could use phrases like "a lean man", "a slender man", or "a sinewy man", depending on which aspect you want to emphasize (leanness, slightness, or visible muscle).

What does "a wiry man" typically imply about someone's physical abilities?

The phrase suggests a lean build combined with surprising strength, agility, and endurance. It often describes someone who is tougher or more resilient than they appear.

Is it appropriate to use the term "a wiry man" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "a wiry man" might be too informal for certain academic or professional contexts. Consider using more descriptive alternatives like "a lean man" or specifying their physical attributes more precisely.

What are some common characteristics associated with "a wiry man"?

Besides leanness and strength, "a wiry man" is often associated with resilience, agility, and a certain toughness. The phrase conveys an impression of understated power and endurance.