it is only human to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is only human to" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express that a certain behavior or reaction is a natural part of being human, often in the context of understanding or empathizing with someone's actions. Example: "It is only human to feel overwhelmed at times, especially when facing significant challenges."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

"It is only human to think that way," he admitted.

The Guardian - Sport

He adds "It is only human to feel concern about the pace of change in communities.

The Guardian

It is only human to feel nervous and suspicious at first.

The New York Times - Books

AFTER a catastrophe, it is only human to wonder what could have been done differently.

The Economist

Asked if he feared being forced into retirement, Hargreaves said recently: "It is only human to think that way.

The Guardian - Sport

A photojournalist's compulsion and problem is always to contrive beauty from misery, and it is only human to feel uneasy about admiring pictures like these from New Orleans, whose sumptuousness can be disorienting.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

But it's only human to have regrets.

The Guardian

He said it was only human to make mistakes".

The New Yorker

"It's a natural reaction and it's only human to be curious.

Independent

It's only human to look for evidence of our views of ideas.

The Guardian

It's only human to have trouble owning up to mistakes.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is only human to" to introduce a statement that normalizes a common experience or feeling, especially when offering understanding or empathy.

Common error

While the phrase is acceptable, avoid overuse in strictly formal writing. Opt for more sophisticated vocabulary to express the same sentiment for professional communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is only human to" serves as an introductory phrase, typically followed by a verb to express a common or understandable human behavior or feeling. It functions to normalize or excuse certain actions. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it is only human to" is a common expression used to normalize human behaviors and feelings. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is grammatically sound and appropriate for use in written English. While it's frequently found in news articles and general-interest content, it's less common in formal or academic writing. Alternatives like "it is natural to" or "it is understandable to" offer similar meanings but may be better suited for certain contexts. When using "it is only human to", aim to express empathy, understanding, or to excuse a common human failing. Ensure that overuse is avoided, especially in professional communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it's just human nature to

Replaces "only" with "just" and uses "human nature" instead of "human", slightly altering the emphasis but maintaining the core meaning.

it's part of being human to

Highlights that specific experiences or feelings are an essential aspect of the human condition.

it is natural to

Simplifies the phrase by removing "only human", focusing on the natural aspect of the behavior or feeling.

it is in our nature to

Focuses on the inherent characteristics of human beings that lead to certain behaviors or feelings.

it's understandable to

Shifts the focus to the comprehensibility of the action or feeling, implying a reason for its occurrence.

it's normal to

Indicates that the behavior or feeling aligns with what is considered typical or expected.

we are all prone to

Highlights human inclination and vulnerability to specific circumstances.

it is to be expected that

Highlights the predictability of a certain outcome or behavior, suggesting it is not surprising.

one can't help but

Emphasizes the involuntary nature of a particular feeling or action, implying a lack of control.

everyone does it

Generalizes the behavior, suggesting it is a common or universal experience.

FAQs

How can I use "it is only human to" in a sentence?

Use "it is only human to" to preface a statement that acknowledges a common human trait, such as making mistakes or feeling overwhelmed. For instance, "It is only human to feel nervous before a big presentation".

What are some alternatives to "it is only human to"?

You can use alternatives like "it is natural to", "it is understandable to", or "it is to be expected that" depending on the context.

Is there a difference between "it is only human to" and "it is human nature to"?

While similar, "it is only human to" tends to focus on specific actions or feelings, whereas "it is human nature to" refers to inherent qualities or tendencies. Both are used to normalize human behavior.

When is it appropriate to use "it is only human to"?

It is appropriate to use "it is only human to" when you want to express empathy, acknowledge a common human experience, or offer understanding for someone's actions or feelings.