an honor student

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an honor student" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a student who achieves high grades or academic excellence, often in a formal or educational context. Example: "She has consistently maintained a high GPA, making her an honor student at her school."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Each is an honor student.

The New York Times

(e) "My Daughter Is an Honor Student".

The New Yorker

I was an honor student.

The New York Times

Too many minivans advertise, somewhat touchingly, that "My Child Is an Honor Student".

The New York Times

She is in the third grade, and is her class president and an honor student.

The New Yorker

They killed James Rou, 17, an honor student who had no connection with any gang.

The New Yorker

Now, mix in an incentive that turns an unfocused teenager into an honor student.

The New York Times

The tale of Ms. Patton, an honor student and a former guard on the N.Y.U.

The New York Times

Kelley also starred in baseball and basketball at Yale and graduated as an honor student.

The New York Times - Sports

Dana is an honor student and goalie on the soccer team.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Maybe you were the basketball star, maybe you were a straight-A honor student.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "an honor student" to highlight academic achievement and dedication, but consider supplementing it with details about extracurricular activities or other notable accomplishments for a fuller picture.

Common error

Avoid using "an honor student" as the sole descriptor of a person's character or capabilities. While academic success is commendable, it does not encompass the entirety of an individual's potential or personality.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an honor student" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject complement or appositive to describe a student who has achieved high academic standing. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Wiki

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an honor student" is a widely used and grammatically sound phrase to describe a student who has achieved high academic standing. Ludwig confirms its proper usage across various contexts, primarily in news and media. While the phrase is effective in highlighting academic achievement, remember to provide additional context for a more comprehensive portrayal of the individual. Consider alternatives like "high-achieving student" or "top student" to diversify your language. The phrase's neutral formality makes it suitable for both formal and informal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a high-achieving student

Focuses on the outcome of achievement rather than the formal recognition.

a top student

Emphasizes ranking and standing among peers.

an excellent student

Highlights overall quality and performance.

a distinguished student

Suggests a level of prestige and recognition beyond typical academic success.

a stellar student

Implies exceptional and outstanding performance.

a meritorious student

Highlights deservingness and worthiness of praise.

a straight-A student

Specifically refers to achieving top grades in all subjects.

an academically gifted student

Focuses on inherent talent and ability.

a scholar

Emphasizes deep knowledge and dedication to learning.

a valedictorian

Refers to the top student in a graduating class.

FAQs

How can I use "an honor student" in a sentence?

You can use "an honor student" to describe someone who achieves high grades, for example: "She is "a straight-A student" and an honor student in her class."

What are some alternative phrases for "an honor student"?

Alternatives include "high-achieving student", "top student", or "distinguished student", each with slightly different connotations.

Is it better to say "honor student" or "high-achieving student"?

Both "honor student" and "high-achieving student" are acceptable. "Honor student" often implies formal recognition, while "high-achieving student" simply emphasizes strong performance.

What qualities define someone as "an honor student"?

An "honor student" is typically characterized by consistent academic excellence, strong work ethic, and often participation in advanced or honors programs.