glimmer of humanity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "glimmer of humanity" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a small sign or indication of human qualities, compassion, or kindness in a person or situation. Example: "Despite his harsh demeanor, there was a glimmer of humanity in his eyes when he spoke about his past."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Animals bring out a glimmer of humanity in even the most synthetic narcissists.

The New York Times - Arts

Not powerful enough, of course, but sufficient to provide at least a glimmer of humanity in this story of brutality and waste.

The New York Times

For all his cruelty, finally some glimmer of humanity shines through.

Forbes

This allowance for creative freedom is also a reaction to the pedagogical environment of art institutions, a glimmer of humanity inspired by Shaw's artistic chutzpah.

Huffington Post

People are fleeing conflict and throwing themselves at the mercy of wealthy governments, hoping that to be treated as part of the same species, hoping for a glimmer of humanity.

HuffPost

Even in the grimmest times in prison, when my comrades and I were pushed to our limits, I would see a glimmer of humanity in one of the guards, perhaps just for a second, but it was enough to reassure me and keep me going.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

In the deluge of desperation there are some glimmers of humanity that shine through.

The Guardian

These reveal the actual daily life of those in the compound, and offer glimmers of humanity and banality.

Independent

That's no surprise, given that Mr. Woo has always been fascinated by gangster codes of honor and by the glimmers of humanity lurking in seemingly coldblooded killers.

The New York Times

Ms. Dern's portrait comes the closest to parody — the role all but demands it — but she manages to convey some glimmers of humanity behind the thick makeup and thicker skull.

The New York Times

The director also employs the misanthropy and sexual hostility that Mr. Hampton used as a gravitational pull in his "Liaisons," which makes Cho-Won's sudden glimmers of humanity comic and tragic.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "glimmer of humanity" to describe a small but significant sign of compassion, kindness, or moral goodness, especially in situations where these qualities are unexpected or rare.

Common error

Avoid using "glimmer of humanity" in contexts where basic human decency is expected. Reserve it for situations where such qualities are surprisingly present amidst negativity or hardship.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "glimmer of humanity" functions as a noun phrase. It typically serves as the subject or object of a sentence, describing a fleeting or small sign of human compassion or kindness. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

17%

Academia

17%

Less common in

Science

16%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "glimmer of humanity" is a noun phrase used to describe a small sign of human kindness or compassion, often in challenging circumstances. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While not overly frequent, its presence in reputable sources like The New York Times and The Guardian indicates its acceptance in standard English. Related phrases include "spark of humanity" and "modicum of humanity", offering similar nuances. When using this phrase, it's best to reserve it for situations where such qualities are surprisingly present amidst negativity or hardship, and avoid overusing it in simplistic contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Modicum of humanity

Replaces "glimmer" with "modicum", indicating a small quantity or degree of humanity.

Spark of humanity

Substitutes "glimmer" with "spark", suggesting a sudden, brief display of humanity.

Sign of humanity

Replaces "glimmer" with "sign", focusing on the indication or evidence of humanity.

Chink of humanity

Uses "chink" instead of "glimmer", suggesting a small opening or crack through which humanity is visible.

Flash of humanity

Replaces "glimmer" with "flash", indicating a brief, sudden instance of humanity.

Light of humanity

Substitutes "glimmer" with "light", emphasizing the illuminating aspect of humanity.

Glimpse of humanity

Replaces "glimmer" with "glimpse", suggesting a fleeting or momentary view of humanity.

Glimmer of compassion

Replaces "humanity" with "compassion", focusing on the sympathetic aspect of human nature.

Ray of humanity

Substitutes "glimmer" with "ray", highlighting the directional and illuminating quality of humanity.

Flicker of humanity

Replaces "glimmer" with "flicker", suggesting an unsteady or intermittent display of humanity.

FAQs

How can I use "glimmer of humanity" in a sentence?

You can use "glimmer of humanity" to describe a brief or small instance of compassion or kindness, as in, "Despite the harsh environment, there was a "glimmer of humanity" in his actions".

What's a good alternative to "glimmer of humanity"?

Alternatives include "spark of humanity", "sign of humanity", or "modicum of humanity", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "glimmer of humanity" formal or informal?

The phrase "glimmer of humanity" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its appropriateness depends more on the surrounding vocabulary and the overall tone of your writing.

When is it appropriate to use "glimmer of humanity"?

Use "glimmer of humanity" when you want to highlight a small, often unexpected, display of positive human qualities in a situation that is otherwise bleak or negative. It suggests that even in difficult circumstances, hope and kindness can still be found.