at his core

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at his core" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the fundamental essence or true nature of a person or thing. Example: "At his core, he is a kind and compassionate individual who always puts others first."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Books

Opinion

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Sanity, balance, control are at his core.

The Guardian - Books

Prosecutors are now looking at his core.

The New Yorker

At his core, he remains a quarterbacks coach.

The New York Times - Sports

But at his core, Peter was a family man.

The New York Times

But, unlike Mike, the game changed him at his core.

The New York Times - Sports

And at his core, he's extremely good with composition.

The New York Times

But at his core there is a truculence.

The New York Times - Magazine

That cold slab still sitting at his core.

The New Yorker

Rather, there is something solid and unshakeable at his core.

The Guardian - Music

At his core, he was a moral writer.

The New Yorker

"At his core, he loves being an offensive line coach," Mangold said.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "at his core" to emphasize the most fundamental and unchanging aspects of a person's character or identity. It's effective for revealing the true nature beneath superficial traits.

Common error

Avoid using "at his core" to describe transient feelings or temporary states. It's meant for deeply ingrained characteristics, not fleeting emotions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at his core" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a noun or pronoun, indicating the deepest, most fundamental aspect of a person's character or being. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Sports

13%

Books

6%

Less common in

Opinion

5%

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "at his core" effectively conveys the fundamental nature of an individual. Ludwig AI confirms its usability, noting its presence in diverse contexts like News & Media, Sports, and Books, demonstrating its wide applicability. It's valuable for revealing a person's underlying character, contrasting with superficial appearances. When writing, remember to use it for ingrained traits rather than fleeting emotions. Alternatives like "in his heart of hearts" or "deep down" provide similar nuances. By considering these aspects, you can use "at his core" with clarity and precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in essence

This phrase captures the most important quality or aspect of someone.

in his heart of hearts

This alternative focuses on the innermost feelings and beliefs of a person.

deep down

This phrase emphasizes the underlying or hidden truth about someone's character.

at the root of his being

Emphasizes that something is integral and foundational to the person's identity.

fundamentally

This adverb highlights the essential or basic nature of someone.

at bottom

Similar to 'deep down', this emphasizes the fundamental reality of someone's character.

in his soul

Implies a deep and spiritual level of character.

by nature

This alternative indicates inherent or innate qualities.

intrinsically

Highlights that something is an essential part of their character.

at the heart of the matter

This version shifts the focus to the central element or key aspect rather than character.

FAQs

How can I use "at his core" in a sentence?

You can use "at his core" to describe someone's fundamental nature. For example, "At his core, he is a compassionate man who cares deeply about others."

What's a good alternative to "at his core"?

Alternatives include "in his heart of hearts", "deep down", or "in essence" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "at his core" in formal writing?

Yes, "at his core" is suitable for formal writing. It appears in reputable news sources and publications. It effectively conveys a sense of fundamental truth in a professional or academic context.

What's the difference between "at his core" and "on the surface"?

"At his core" describes someone's deeply ingrained nature, while "on the surface" describes their outward appearance or behavior. They are contrasting concepts.