an idiot with

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an idiot with" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who possesses a particular quality or characteristic, often in a derogatory manner. Example: "He is just an idiot with no sense of direction, always getting lost."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

37 human-written examples

"I am an idiot with a box and a screwdriver".

Independent

Ggaecheol's just an idiot with no place to go".

The New Yorker

"She is an idiot with no real sources," asserted Spicer.

The Washington Post

Sara Palin, to put it bluntly and colloquially, is an idiot with initiative!

University of California, Berkeley

You can pack different types of foods, while not looking like an idiot with a lunchbox.

Stanford University

One Texan sheriff's deputy has called him "an idiot with a fax machine".

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

Then an impatient idiot with a honky-tonk horn started up, and the tractor driver accelerated away, while the old lady and her son slowly, miserably fell back.

The Guardian

I knew he was a charming rogue with an appealing agenda, but I didn't think he was a reckless idiot with an appealing agenda.

The New York Times

You'll leave either grinning like an idiot or with a migraine the size of Alaska.

The New York Times

The guy has been an idiot, thinking with what's in his trousers instead of his brain.

The Times

So, okay, maybe that makes me an idiot lawyer with a retail background; however, I know a thing or two about customer relations and returns.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "an idiot with", ensure the context is appropriate for the tone and potential impact. Consider whether a less harsh or more descriptive alternative might be more suitable, especially in professional or sensitive settings.

Common error

Avoid relying too heavily on the phrase "an idiot with" as it can become repetitive and lack nuance. Vary your language by using more specific descriptions of a person's shortcomings or limitations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an idiot with" functions primarily as a noun phrase acting as a descriptor. It serves to characterize an individual by combining a pejorative label ("idiot") with a prepositional phrase indicating a possession, attribute, or association. As Ludwig AI correctly states, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Academia

13%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an idiot with" is a frequently used, grammatically sound phrase with a negative connotation. It is typically employed in informal contexts, particularly within news and media, to criticize or demean someone by linking their perceived lack of intelligence to a specific attribute or possession. Ludwig AI confirms its usability, while caution should be exercised regarding its potential offensiveness and appropriateness in formal settings. Consider alternatives like "a fool with" or "a moron with" depending on the specific context and desired level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a fool with

Replaces "idiot" with a synonym, maintaining the same structure and negative connotation.

a moron with

Substitutes "idiot" with another term for a person of low intelligence.

an imbecile with

Substitutes with a more clinical term, suggesting significant intellectual deficiency.

a dimwit with

Uses a more informal synonym for "idiot", suitable for casual contexts.

a halfwit with

Uses a term implying someone with limited intelligence or understanding.

a simpleton with

Replaces "idiot" with a more archaic term, implying naivety and lack of understanding.

a dolt with

Replaces "idiot" with another term for a slow-witted or stupid person.

a dunce with

Replaces "idiot" with a term for someone considered slow or stupid, often in an educational context.

a nincompoop with

Substitutes "idiot" with a humorous and slightly old-fashioned term for a silly or foolish person.

a buffoon with

Implies someone who is not only unintelligent but also ridiculous and clownish.

FAQs

What does it mean to call someone "an idiot with" something?

Calling someone "an idiot with" something implies they are unintelligent or foolish, and this lack of intelligence is compounded or highlighted by their possession or involvement with the specified thing. The phrase is generally used disparagingly.

What are some alternative ways to say "an idiot with" something?

You could use alternatives such as "a fool with", "a moron with", or "a simpleton with", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use the phrase "an idiot with" in formal writing?

No, the phrase "an idiot with" is generally considered too informal and potentially offensive for formal writing. Opt for more professional and objective language.

How can I use the phrase "an idiot with" effectively in storytelling?

In storytelling, use "an idiot with" to quickly establish a character's incompetence or foolishness, especially when combined with a tool, responsibility, or position that amplifies their shortcomings. Be mindful of the potential for caricature and ensure the portrayal serves the narrative.