an individualist

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an individualist" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who prioritizes their own independence and self-reliance over collective or societal norms. Example: "As an individualist, she often challenges conventional wisdom and forges her own path in life."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This individualistic economy created an individualist ideal of self.

The New York Times

I am an individualist".

The New Yorker

I was an individualist.

The Guardian - Film

He's an individualist".

The New York Times

I've always been an individualist.

Independent

He is too much of an individualist.

The New York Times - Sports

"Each man is an individualist," she said.

The New York Times

In mathematics Cayley was an individualist.

Encyclopedia Britannica

As a conductor, he was an individualist.

The New York Times - Arts

"I am an individualist," he said.

The New York Times

I really am an individualist, you see".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone as "an individualist", be sure to provide specific examples of their independent behavior or thinking to support your claim.

Common error

Avoid portraying "an individualist" solely as someone who disregards others' needs. True individualism often involves independent thought and action within a framework of ethical considerations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an individualist" primarily functions as a noun, specifically a countable noun, identifying a person who champions independence and self-reliance. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Encyclopedias

7%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "an individualist" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed term to describe someone who values independence and self-reliance. Ludwig AI confirms this, showcasing examples from diverse sources like news outlets, encyclopedias, and scientific publications. While a common and acceptable term, it's important to use it with nuance, avoiding the implication that individualism equates to selfishness. Alternatives such as "independent thinker" or "self-reliant person" may be more appropriate depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an independent thinker

Highlights the intellectual aspect of forming one's own opinions.

a self-reliant person

Focuses specifically on the trait of relying on oneself.

an autonomous person

Stresses the ability to make independent decisions.

a nonconformist

Emphasizes the rejection of societal norms and expectations.

a maverick

Suggests a rebellious and independent-minded approach, often in a professional context.

a self-sufficient person

Emphasizes the ability to provide for one's own needs without external assistance.

a free spirit

Implies a sense of liberation and unconventionality in one's lifestyle.

a self-determining person

Highlights the power to choose one's own course of action.

a self-governing individual

Focuses on the aspect of autonomy and personal control.

a lone wolf

Suggests preferring to work alone and avoid social interaction.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "an individualist" in a sentence?

Use "an individualist" to describe someone who prioritizes their own judgment, independence, and self-reliance. For instance, "She's "clearly an individualist", making decisions based on her own values rather than societal expectations."

What are some alternatives to saying "an individualist"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "independent thinker", "nonconformist", or "self-reliant person". Each of these carries slightly different connotations.

Is it more appropriate to say "individualist" or "independent thinker"?

While both terms describe someone who doesn't blindly follow the crowd, "individualist" emphasizes self-reliance and autonomy, whereas "independent thinker" specifically highlights the intellectual aspect of forming one's own opinions.

What's the difference between "an individualist" and "a collectivist"?

"An individualist" prioritizes personal goals and independence, while "a collectivist" emphasizes group harmony and shared goals. These represent contrasting value systems and approaches to life.