blind date

USAGE SUMMARY

"blind date" is a perfectly acceptable term in written English.
You can use it to refer to a situation in which two people have no prior knowledge of each other and have agreed to meet for a social engagement. For example, "I'm a bit nervous about meeting my blind date tonight - I hope we hit it off!".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Lifestyle

Dating

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

"Blind date.

The New York Times - Style

Fancy a blind date?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Think blind date.

The New York Times

Best blind date ever.

The Guardian

It's like a blind date.

The New York Times

On a blind date with a book ("Blind Date")?

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

7 human-written examples

Steve Harvey Blind date test.

Los Angeles Times

But it isn't anything like Blind Date.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Here are two good examples: "Blind Date," by Max Barry.

The New Yorker

Cilla Pre-fame biopic of Blind Date icon.

The Guardian - Film

And what next for the Blind Date wedding couples?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "blind date" to add a touch of uncertainty and anticipation to your writing about social encounters.

Common error

Avoid using "blind date" when the individuals have some prior knowledge of each other, even if they haven't met in person. The key element is the complete lack of acquaintance beforehand.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "blind date" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject or object in a sentence. Ludwig examples confirm its common usage to describe a social encounter between two previously unacquainted individuals. Ludwig AI confirms this phrase is commonly used in written english.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Lifestyle

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Social Media

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "blind date" is a common and grammatically sound noun phrase used to describe a meeting between two people who have never met before, often arranged with romantic intentions. Ludwig's AI confirms its acceptability in written English. Usage analysis reveals that the term is most frequently found in news, media, and lifestyle contexts. While generally neutral in tone, "blind date" might be too informal for strictly academic writing. When using the term, ensure the context clearly indicates the lack of prior acquaintance between the individuals. Ludwig's examples highlight the term's widespread use and understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a date with a mystery person

Adds a sense of intrigue and uncertainty.

arranged meeting

Focuses on the arrangement aspect, omitting the surprise element.

prearranged encounter

Emphasizes the planning of the meeting but lacks the 'unknown' aspect.

unseen introduction

Focuses on the lack of prior visual knowledge.

first date

Highlights it being the initial meeting, regardless of prior knowledge.

meeting set up by a friend

Highlights how the meeting was arranged rather than the 'blind' aspect.

get-together with a stranger

More descriptive and less idiomatic.

surprise date

Highlights the surprise element but doesn't imply a lack of prior connection.

chance meeting

Implies a less formal and unplanned meeting.

introduction to someone new

General term for meeting someone for the first time.

FAQs

How can I use "blind date" in a sentence?

You can use "blind date" to describe a prearranged meeting between two people who have never met, such as: "She was nervous about her first "blind date"." or "They met on a "blind date" set up by mutual friends".

What are some alternatives to saying "blind date"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "arranged meeting", "first date", or "meeting with a stranger". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "blind date" in formal writing?

While "blind date" is widely understood, it's generally more suitable for informal or neutral contexts. In formal writing, consider using a more descriptive phrase like "prearranged meeting with an unfamiliar person".

What's the difference between "blind date" and "online date"?

A "blind date" implies that two people are meeting without any prior knowledge of each other. An "online date" typically involves some level of prior interaction and information exchange online before the physical meeting.