kindred spirit

USAGE SUMMARY

'kindred spirit' is an idiom used in written English.
You can use it to refer to someone with whom you have a close connection, often because of shared beliefs or interests. For example, "He is my kindred spirit, since we both have a passion for social justice."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It was kindred spirit at first sight".

The New York Times

He recognized in Dickinson a kindred spirit.

The New Yorker

In Netanyahu's Israel, they have found a curiously kindred spirit.

The Washington Post

Another kindred spirit is Representative Gene Green of Texas.

The New York Times - Travel

But on Tuesday she stood alongside a kindred spirit.

The Guardian - Opinion

Donald Trump always somehow seem like kindred spirit.

The New Yorker

Still, it's tempting to think Walsh recognised in the terrible twosome a kindred spirit.

Independent

Oprah invited her "soul mate" and "kindred spirit" on OWN.

Forbes

They recognize in him a kindred spirit.

HuffPost

I had met a kindred spirit.

HuffPost

And on Trump, he finds a surprisingly kindred spirit.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context and whether a more specific term like "soulmate" or "like-minded individual" might be more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "kindred spirit" excessively. Variety in your vocabulary makes your writing more engaging and precise.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "kindred spirit" functions as a noun, typically used to describe a person with whom one shares a deep connection. Ludwig examples show its usage in various contexts, highlighting its role in identifying shared affinities.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"Kindred spirit" is a noun phrase used to describe someone with whom you share a deep connection and understanding. As indicated by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and very commonly used, particularly in news and media contexts. While generally neutral in register, careful consideration of context allows for alternative phrasing such as "soulmate" or "like-minded individual". It’s important to avoid overuse and ensure the term accurately reflects the depth of the connection being described.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Kindred soul

A direct synonym, emphasizing the spiritual and emotional connection.

Soulmate

Implies a deeper, often romantic connection, beyond just shared interests.

A person after my own heart

Emphasizes deep affection and admiration for someone's qualities.

Like-minded individual

Highlights shared beliefs and values, emphasizing intellectual alignment.

Someone on the same wavelength

Emphasizes intuitive understanding and agreement.

Fellow traveler

Suggests shared experiences and journeys, often in a metaphorical sense.

A person of similar sensibilities

Highlights shared tastes, preferences, and emotional responses.

Someone who shares my outlook

Focuses specifically on having a similar perspective on life.

Companion

Focuses on shared activities and companionship, rather than deep understanding.

Someone who understands me

Focuses on the feeling of being understood and validated.

FAQs

How can I use "kindred spirit" in a sentence?

You can use "kindred spirit" to describe someone with whom you share a strong connection or understanding, as in "She found a "kindred spirit" in her new colleague because they shared a passion for environmental conservation".

What's the difference between "kindred spirit" and "soulmate"?

"Kindred spirit" generally refers to a deep connection based on shared interests or values, while "soulmate" often implies a more romantic or destined connection.

Are there any alternatives to "kindred spirit"?

Yes, you can use alternatives like "like-minded individual", "fellow traveler", or "kindred soul", depending on the context.

Is "kindred spirit" formal or informal?

"Kindred spirit" is generally considered a neutral term and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.