he was untouchable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "he was untouchable" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is beyond criticism, immune to harm, or in a position of power where they cannot be challenged. Example: "In the world of politics, he was untouchable, with no rival daring to oppose him."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

"Like he was untouchable".

The New Yorker

He was untouchable," he said.

The Guardian

Kuroda eventually agreed, and he was untouchable for the next four innings.

The New York Times - Sports

Ross believed he was untouchable and could get away with being A Man Behaving Badly.

The Guardian

Thorn said last night that he would never tell a player he was untouchable.

The New York Times - Sports

Did he wish to die, or arrogantly imagine he was untouchable?

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

"He's untouchable".

The New York Times

"He is untouchable," General Manager Ernie Accorsi said.

The New York Times - Sports

He's untouchable," Banhart told Paste magazine.

The Guardian - Music

I would say he is untouchable.

The Guardian - Sport

On his day, he is untouchable.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "he was untouchable" to describe someone who seems immune to criticism, punishment, or any form of negative consequence due to their power, status, or skill. Ensure the context clearly indicates the source of their 'untouchable' status.

Common error

Avoid using "he was untouchable" in contexts where someone is merely difficult to reach or contact. This phrase implies a deeper sense of invulnerability or unassailability, not simply physical unavailability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "he was untouchable" functions primarily as a descriptive adjective phrase. It modifies a subject (he) to indicate that the person was invulnerable or beyond reach, often in terms of power, skill, or status, as seen in the Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "he was untouchable" is a descriptive adjective phrase that signifies invulnerability or an unassailable position. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used, particularly in news and media contexts. While its register is generally neutral, it's essential to use the phrase judiciously, ensuring the context warrants the strong implication of immunity from criticism or consequences. Alternative phrases, such as "he was invulnerable" or "he was beyond reproach", can provide nuanced variations of the same idea.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

he was untouchable

Conveys the idea of someone so powerful they can't be touched.

he was untouchable

Conveys the idea of someone so powerful they can't be touched.

he was invulnerable

Replaces "untouchable" with a direct synonym, focusing on the inability to be harmed.

he was beyond reproach

Shifts the focus to being free from criticism or blame, implying a moral invulnerability.

he was unassailable

Highlights the impossibility of attacking or challenging his position or authority.

he was immune to consequences

Emphasizes freedom from negative repercussions, suggesting a protected status.

he had impunity

Focuses on the freedom from punishment or negative consequences.

he was above the law

Indicates an exemption from legal accountability, implying a position of power.

he was a force to be reckoned with

Conveys the idea of someone powerful and difficult to oppose.

he was in a league of his own

Suggests a level of skill or status far above others, making him incomparable.

FAQs

How can I use "he was untouchable" in a sentence?

You can use "he was untouchable" to describe someone who is immune to criticism or consequences, such as, "In his prime, "he was untouchable", winning every major tournament."

What does it mean when someone is described as "he was untouchable"?

When someone is described as "he was untouchable", it typically means that they held a position of such power, skill, or status that they were invulnerable to criticism, challenge, or harm.

What are some alternative phrases to "he was untouchable"?

Alternatives include phrases like "he was invulnerable", "he was beyond reproach", or "he was unassailable", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "he was untouchable" in formal writing?

Yes, "he was untouchable" can be used in formal writing, especially when discussing politics, sports, or historical figures. However, ensure the context warrants the strong implication of invulnerability or unassailability.