almost anybody

USAGE SUMMARY

'almost anybody' is correct and usable in written English and it is a widely accepted phrase.
For example, you can use it in a sentence such as: "I believe almost anybody can learn to play the piano with enough practice."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"She could wear almost anybody.

The New York Times

"Almost anybody would plead guilty.

The New York Times

Or almost anybody else.

The New York Times - Sports

We will work with almost anybody.

Columbia University

Almost anybody, that is, except Bill Gates.

The Economist

Probably less than almost anybody out there.

The New York Times - Sports

Almost anybody might be their target.

Independent

That's enough to keep almost anybody away.

The New York Times

Well, maybe not anybody -- almost anybody".

The New York Times - Sports

I am certain almost anybody would.

The New Yorker

"Oh, I wish it had been almost anybody else.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "almost anybody" to convey a sense of broad applicability, but be mindful of potentially excluding specific groups unintentionally. Ensure the statement remains accurate even when considering exceptions.

Common error

Avoid using "almost anybody" when a more precise qualifier is needed. Overusing it can dilute the impact of your statement and make it seem less credible. Be precise about the group to which the statement applies.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "almost anybody" functions as a determiner modifying a noun, indicating a broad but not entirely comprehensive range of individuals. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread use.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Academia

17%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "almost anybody" is a versatile expression used to convey that something is generally applicable, though not universally so. As highlighted by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically sound and frequently used across various contexts. While highly frequent in News & Media, it also appears in academic and business settings. When using "almost anybody", consider the potential for overgeneralization and the need for precise qualifiers to ensure clarity and avoid unintended exclusions. It is best practice to confirm whether the statement remains accurate even when considering exceptions. Alternatives like "nearly everyone", "practically anyone", or "virtually all people" can provide subtle shifts in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

nearly everyone

Emphasizes the closeness to encompassing all people.

practically anyone

Highlights the feasibility or ease with which someone could be included.

virtually all people

Stresses the overwhelming majority of individuals.

just about anyone

Suggests a slightly more casual or relaxed tone.

almost all individuals

Formal alternative that focuses on each person separately.

a majority of people

Indicates that more than half of the group is included.

most people

Highlights that a larger part of the population shares a common trait.

the vast majority

Implies a large, but not necessarily complete, inclusion.

a great number of people

Focuses on the large quantity of individuals involved.

pretty much anyone

Similar to "just about anyone", but slightly more informal.

FAQs

How can I use "almost anybody" in a sentence?

You can use "almost anybody" to express that something is generally true for most people. For example, "Almost anybody can learn a new language with dedication and the right resources".

What is a good alternative to "almost anybody"?

Alternatives include phrases like "nearly everyone", "practically anyone", or "virtually all people", depending on the context and the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "almost everyone" or "almost anybody"?

Both phrases are correct, but "almost everyone" is generally used when referring to a specific group of people, while "almost anybody" implies a more general applicability across diverse populations.

When is it inappropriate to use "almost anybody"?

It is best to avoid "almost anybody" when the statement could be seen as insensitive or discriminatory towards a specific group. In such cases, using more precise and inclusive language is important.