he is slim

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "he is slim" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone's physical appearance, specifically indicating that they have a slender build. Example: "Despite his slim figure, he is incredibly strong and agile."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

At 63, he is slim and tall.

The New York Times

He is slim, and the accent is German, not French.

Independent

He is slim and friendly — and very nervous.

The New Yorker

And he is slim tall and good skin.

The Guardian

He is slim and spry and virtually wrinkle-free, and he lives on his own.

The New York Times

He is slim and fair, clean-cut, with fine features, and speaks in a professorial tone.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

Even though he is slimmer than he was three months ago, his sense of humor has not shriveled -- and neither has his bravado.

The New York Times

He is slimmed down, healthier and rejuvenated by a system he likes, a receiving staff that has been upgraded and a head coach who gushes about him.

The New York Times - Sports

As he is slimming the company down, he is also boosting its value.

Forbes

"He was slim in the areas where he had to be slim, and he was strong.

The New York Times - Sports

He was slim, and his hair and clothes were simple and stylish.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's appearance, consider using "he is slim" to convey a positive impression of health and fitness, especially in professional or journalistic contexts. Avoid using it when referring to someone who is underweight or unhealthy.

Common error

While "he is slim" is generally acceptable, be mindful of the context. In formal or academic writing, consider more precise terms like "he is slender" or "he maintains a lean physique" to add sophistication to your description.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "he is slim" functions as a descriptive statement, providing information about someone's physical appearance. It is a simple declarative sentence that uses the verb "is" to link the subject "he" with the adjective "slim". According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is correct and can be used in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "he is slim" is a grammatically sound and commonly used way to describe someone's physical appearance, specifically indicating a slender build. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness for written English. While generally neutral in register, it is most frequently found in news and media contexts. When writing, consider the specific nuance you wish to convey; alternatives such as "he is slender" may be more appropriate for formal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

he is slender

Uses a synonym for "slim" to describe the person's build.

he is thin

Employs a more common synonym for describing a lean physique.

he is lean

Focuses on a fit and slender appearance, implying a healthy leanness.

he has a slender build

Rephrases to focus on the noun "build" modified by the adjective "slender".

he has a lean physique

Similar to slender build but uses "physique" to emphasis the body shape.

he is not overweight

Expresses the idea negatively, indicating the absence of excess weight.

he is underweight

Conveys being below the healthy weight range, suggesting extreme slenderness.

he is wiry

Indicates a slim but strong and sinewy physique.

he is slight of build

Highlights a delicate and slender physique.

he is of slight stature

Focuses on overall body size being small and slender.

FAQs

What's a more formal way to say "he is slim"?

For more formal writing, consider using phrases like "he is slender" or "he has a lean physique". These options provide a more sophisticated tone while conveying the same meaning.

When is it appropriate to use "he is slim"?

The phrase "he is slim" is appropriate in many contexts, from casual conversation to news reporting. However, avoid using it when the person's slenderness is due to illness or unhealthy habits.

Are there negative connotations associated with saying "he is slim"?

Generally, "he is slim" does not carry negative connotations unless the context suggests an unhealthy level of thinness. In such cases, it might be better to avoid the phrase or use more specific language.

What words are similar to "slim"?

Synonyms for slim include "slender", "thin", "lean", and "wiry". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.