available man

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "available man" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a man who is free or not currently engaged in a relationship or commitment. Example: "At the party, I noticed that he was the only available man in the room, and many women were interested in talking to him."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

If you have the ball, you attack with every available man.

The New York Times - Sports

But the bank's senior ranks need new blood, even if the best available man to lead it comes from inside.

The Economist

Being single in the suburbs, where there are three to four women for every available man, can be difficult.

The New York Times

According to polls, a majority of the city's voters would prefer a new mayor but also believe the current one is the best available man for the job.

The New Yorker

In the film, Swanson, the youngest and prettiest of the women, flirts with any available man and even goes off with a Japanese officer.

The Guardian - Film

One of the few characters to lack a sense of humor is the villain of "An Available Man," a flamboyant figure from Edward's past who erupts into his present.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

"You have to ask yourself, 'Suppose the available men were getting married to the available women?

The New York Times

Here were all the nearby available men, most of them nameless, designated only by a radius.

The New Yorker

From her first scene, where she scans an engagement party ravenously for available men, rejection simply never occurs to her.

The Guardian - Film

But it was difficult to meet eligible available men; the ones I liked were always married and younger than me.

The Guardian

It must be global warming: as the icecaps melt and crops wither, so do all the single available men.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When referring to someone's relationship status, consider the context and audience. "Available man" can sometimes sound objectifying, so choose alternatives like "single man" or "unattached" if appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "available man" in highly formal or professional settings, as it can sound too casual. Opt for more neutral language such as "single male" or "unattached individual" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "available man" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where the adjective "available" modifies the noun "man". It describes a man who is not currently in a committed relationship and, therefore, is free to form new relationships. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

73%

Science

12%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "available man" is a common way to describe a single, unattached male, frequently appearing in news and media contexts, as validated by Ludwig AI. While grammatically correct, it's essential to consider the context when using it, as it can sometimes sound too casual or even objectifying. Alternatives like "single man" or "unattached male" may be more appropriate in formal settings. Understanding its usage patterns and potential connotations allows for more effective and nuanced communication. Remember that while correct, the register is relevant: The New York Times may use the phrase, but you should reserve its use for social settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

single man

A more straightforward and common way to express the same idea.

eligible man

Similar, but puts more emphasis on him being a desirable choice.

bachelor

A classic term for a single, unmarried man.

eligible bachelor

Focuses more specifically on marital eligibility and social standing.

uncommitted man

Directly states the lack of commitment.

unattached male

Emphasizes the lack of current relationship attachment.

unclaimed man

Suggests that the man is free from any relationship commitments.

single gentleman

Highlights both the single status and a certain level of refinement.

free agent

Conveys the idea of being uncommitted and open to possibilities, metaphorically.

solitary man

Emphasizes the state of being alone.

FAQs

What does it mean to describe someone as an "available man"?

Describing someone as an "available man" typically means they are single and not currently in a committed relationship, implying they are open to dating or forming a relationship.

What can I say instead of "available man"?

You can use alternatives like "single man", "unattached male", or "eligible bachelor" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use the term "available man" in professional contexts?

Generally, it's better to avoid using "available man" in professional settings, as it can be perceived as too casual or even objectifying. More neutral terms like "single" or "unattached" are preferable.

What's the difference between "available man" and "single man"?

While similar, "single man" is a more straightforward and neutral term. "Available man" can sometimes imply a sense of eagerness or openness to a relationship, which might not always be the intended meaning.