an overwhelming privilege

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an overwhelming privilege" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a strong sense of honor or gratitude for a particular opportunity or experience. Example: "Receiving the award was an overwhelming privilege that I will cherish forever."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

MacFarlane called the opportunity "an overwhelming privilege".

Independent

"It's truly an overwhelming privilege to be asked to host the Oscars," said MacFarlane, whose appearance on the February 24 telecast will be his first.

The Guardian - Film

"It's truly an overwhelming privilege to be asked to host the Oscars," said MacFarlane in a statement.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

This, my friend, is because you have overwhelming privilege in that situation – the privilege of mainstream society telling you that you are normal and that the trans person is an oddity to be examined.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

An enormous privilege and an overwhelming responsibility.

Huffington Post

It's one thing to concede that the art world is, if not white supremacist in the hateful sense of the post-Trump "alt right," undeniably a place of overwhelming white privilege.

The New Yorker

"It was an overwhelming shock.

The New York Times - Magazine

They made an overwhelming case.

The New York Times

This generated an overwhelming response.

Independent

Neither is an overwhelming majority.

The New York Times

By an overwhelming majority.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience and context when using this phrase. While it conveys sincerity, ensure it aligns with the overall tone and formality of your communication.

Common error

Avoid using "an overwhelming privilege" in casual conversations or informal writing. It can sound overly formal or insincere in settings where a more relaxed tone is expected.

Linguistic Context

Adjectival phrase functioning as a descriptor. The phrase "an overwhelming privilege" typically serves to modify a noun (often an opportunity, honor, or task) by emphasizing the magnitude or intensity of the privilege. Ludwig confirms its usage in contexts expressing sincere gratitude or honor.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an overwhelming privilege" is a grammatically sound and emotionally charged phrase used to convey a strong sense of gratitude or honor. While Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, its usage is relatively rare, primarily appearing in News & Media contexts. When employing this phrase, consider the level of formality required by the situation, and ensure that it genuinely reflects the depth of your appreciation. Alternatives such as "a profound honor" or "a great privilege" may be more suitable for less formal occasions. Be mindful of the tone and audience to maximize the impact and sincerity of your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a tremendous privilege

Uses "tremendous" to convey a sense of great importance.

a profound honor

Replaces "privilege" with "honor", emphasizing respect and esteem.

an immense honor

Replaces "overwhelming privilege" with a similar expression stressing the importance.

a distinct privilege

Highlights the special nature of the privilege.

an exceptional honor

Highlights the outstanding quality of the honor.

a singular honor

Emphasizes the uniqueness and distinction of the honor.

a great advantage

Shifts the focus to benefit and opportunity.

a rare opportunity

Emphasizes the infrequency and value of the chance.

a significant advantage

Focuses on the considerable benefit gained.

an extraordinary opportunity

Stresses the unusual and remarkable nature of the opportunity.

FAQs

How can I use "an overwhelming privilege" in a sentence?

You can use "an overwhelming privilege" to express deep gratitude or honor for an opportunity. For example, "It is "an overwhelming privilege" to be a part of this project."

What are some alternatives to "an overwhelming privilege"?

Alternatives include "a tremendous honor", "a great privilege", or "a distinct honor" depending on the context and the specific nuance you want to convey. You can also use "a rare opportunity".

Is it appropriate to use "an overwhelming privilege" in informal settings?

While grammatically correct, "an overwhelming privilege" is quite formal. In informal settings, consider using phrases like "a real honor" or "a great opportunity" which are more relaxed in tone.

What's the difference between "an overwhelming privilege" and "a great privilege"?

"An overwhelming privilege" suggests a stronger sense of honor and gratitude compared to "a great privilege". The former emphasizes the magnitude and depth of the feeling, while the latter is a more general expression of appreciation. "Great" is used more frequently than "an overwhelming privilege".