he is crazy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "he is crazy" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who exhibits irrational behavior or thoughts, often in a colloquial or informal context. Example: "I don't know what he was thinking when he jumped off that cliff; he is crazy!"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

Maybe he is crazy.

The Guardian - Books

But he is crazy like a fox".

The New Yorker

I wonder whether he is crazy.

The New Yorker

He is crazy about snowmobiling".

The Guardian - Business

He is crazy, like an animal.

The Guardian

Writer says Earl broke up recently during a legislative session and some say he is crazy.

The New Yorker

He's self-aware about how funny he is — crazy and witty both.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

"He's crazy".

The New York Times - Sports

He was crazy.

Independent

Saying he was crazy.

The New Yorker

"And he was crazy.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Avoid using "he is crazy" in formal or professional settings where a more nuanced and respectful description is appropriate.

Common error

Don't overuse "he is crazy" to describe mild or harmless eccentricities. Reserve it for situations where the behavior is genuinely irrational or alarming to avoid trivializing mental health issues.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "he is crazy" functions primarily as a subject complement. It ascribes a characteristic or state of being to the subject ("he"). Ludwig examples show its use in describing someone's actions or personality as irrational or unusual. The field Ludwig AI confirms its correct use in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

15%

Reference

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "he is crazy" is a common expression used to describe someone perceived as irrational, eccentric, or highly enthusiastic. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. However, it's important to consider the context and potential sensitivities when using this phrase, as it can be stigmatizing. Alternatives like "he is eccentric" or "he is passionate" may be more appropriate in certain situations. While frequently found in news and media, the phrase leans towards informal usage. Avoiding overuse and mindful application are key to responsible communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

he is insane

More clinical and intense term for describing someone's mental state.

he is mad

A more general term, implying anger or irrationality.

he is out of his mind

Suggests a temporary state of irrationality.

he is nuts

Informal way of saying someone is behaving irrationally.

he is bonkers

British slang for someone behaving strangely.

he is fanatical

Describes someone with extreme enthusiasm or obsession.

he is obsessed

Implies an excessive preoccupation with something.

he is wild

Suggests uncontrolled behavior or excitement.

he is eccentric

Describes someone with unconventional or slightly strange behavior.

he is irrational

Indicates someone not governed by reason or logic.

FAQs

What does it mean when someone says "he is crazy"?

Saying "he is crazy" typically means someone believes the person's behavior or thoughts are irrational, unpredictable, or unconventional. The term can range from playful to derogatory depending on context and tone.

Are there less offensive ways to say "he is crazy"?

Yes, depending on the situation you can use alternatives like "he is eccentric", "he is passionate", or "he is unconventional" to describe someone without using potentially stigmatizing language.

Is it appropriate to use the phrase "he is crazy" in a formal setting?

No, it's generally inappropriate. Formal settings require more professional and respectful language. Consider describing the behavior directly rather than labeling the person as "crazy".

What's the difference between saying "he is crazy" and "he has a mental illness"?

"He is crazy" is an informal, often judgmental label. "He has a mental illness" is a more respectful and accurate way to acknowledge someone's mental health condition. It avoids stigma and promotes understanding.