feeling of otherness

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "feeling of otherness" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a sense of being different or separate from a group or society, often in contexts related to identity or belonging. Example: "Her experiences in a new country often led to a feeling of otherness, making it difficult for her to connect with the locals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

"It's a feeling of alienation and a feeling of otherness, that the system does not work for them," Ms. Venetis said, and therefore they have little incentive to work within the system.

The New York Times

To keep him from the feeling of "otherness" I'd worried about since before he was born.

Huffington Post

Photographer Endia Beal explored this frustration that occurs so often in the corporate sphere, this feeling of otherness that asks women, quite simply, to change.

Huffington Post

Almost every woman has toiled before the mirror, trying desperately to look "professional". Photographer Endia Beal explored this frustration that occurs so often in the corporate sphere, this feeling of otherness that asks women, quite simply, to change.

HuffPost

He went to high school in New York, where he attended the Bronx public school DeWitt Clinton and then Fieldston, the Riverdale private school, which gave him a full scholarship and a sharpened feeling of otherness.

The New York Times - Books

She was proud of that history, but her father tried to distance his family from it and assimilate into wealthy Christian society, giving Lazarus many Christian friends but also a distinct feeling of otherness.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Addressing feelings of "otherness" is key in discussions of LGBT rights.

The Guardian

Her new book returns to the same territory, subtly unpicking cultural misunderstandings and the feelings of otherness associated with migrancy and exile.

The Guardian - Books

In the past, especially with closed adoptions, experts advised adoptive parents to deny the adoptee's feelings of Otherness.

HuffPost

"Tyrel" is a lab experiment with no insight into feelings of otherness beyond the blinding light directed at its wigged-out subject.

Los Angeles Times

But after everything that's happened this week the consistent rejection, the feelings of otherness, the vacuous angry people—I decided to go home.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about personal experiences or character development, use "feeling of otherness" to convey a deep sense of not belonging or fitting in, especially when describing formative moments or challenges overcome.

Common error

Avoid using "feeling of otherness" as a synonym for general unhappiness or dissatisfaction. The phrase is more effective when it specifically relates to a sense of social or cultural disconnect.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "feeling of otherness" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb or the complement of a preposition. Ludwig examples show it describing the subjective experience of being different or excluded.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "feeling of otherness" effectively captures the subjective experience of not belonging. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and usable in written English to describe a sense of being different or separate, often in contexts related to identity or belonging. While alternatives like "sense of alienation" or "feeling of estrangement" exist, "feeling of otherness" offers a nuanced way to convey this complex emotion, suitable for both formal and informal writing. Its relative infrequency suggests a more deliberate and considered usage, adding depth and specificity to discussions of identity and social dynamics.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

feeling like an outsider

Directly expresses the sensation of not belonging.

sense of not belonging

Highlights the lack of connection and acceptance.

sense of alienation

Focuses on the emotional and psychological isolation experienced.

sense of isolation

Highlights the feeling of being alone and apart from others.

feeling of estrangement

Emphasizes the separation and distance from others.

feeling of disconnectedness

Emphasizes the lack of connection and unity with others.

sense of marginalization

Highlights the experience of being pushed to the edge of society.

experience of exclusion

Focuses on being actively left out or prevented from participating.

experience of being different

Focuses on the perception and impact of individual differences.

outsider's perspective

Emphasizes viewing the world from a position outside the norm.

FAQs

How can I use "feeling of otherness" in a sentence?

You can use "feeling of otherness" to describe a character's experience of not fitting into a group or society. For example, "Her experiences in a new country led to a "feeling of otherness", making it difficult for her to connect with the locals."

What are some alternatives to "feeling of otherness"?

Alternatives include "sense of alienation", "feeling of estrangement", or "sense of marginalization", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "feeling of otherness" and "sense of alienation"?

"Feeling of otherness" generally refers to a broader sense of not belonging or being different, while "sense of alienation" implies a more profound emotional and psychological isolation.

Is it correct to use "feeling of otherness" in formal writing?

Yes, "feeling of otherness" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when discussing social issues, personal experiences, or character development in literature.