major writer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "major writer" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a writer who has significant influence, recognition, or importance in their field or genre. Example: "Ernest Hemingway is considered a major writer of the 20th century, known for his impactful storytelling and distinctive style."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It is impossible to imagine a less complacent major writer.

The New Yorker

"He was the major writer in every field.

The New York Times

Odets seemed to me a woefully overlooked major writer.

The New Yorker

Joseph Conrad didn't become a major writer until his 40s (after long years at sea).

The New York Times

We wondered if he ever thought of anybody as "a major writer - a bad one".

The New Yorker

Had he never written a novel, this would still make Ballard a major writer.

The Guardian - Books

"If I hadn't done The Paris Review, I could have been a major writer".

The New York Times - Books

I don't know of any major writer who doesn't engage with the darker aspects of life.

The New Yorker

To be a major writer requires honesty as well as art.

The Guardian

"Storyteller, teacher, enchanter" is how Vladimir Nabokov taxonomies the major writer, placing special emphasis on the enchanter.

The New Yorker

Valéry wrote no more poetry of consequence after 1922, but his place as a major writer was secure.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "major writer", ensure the context supports the assertion of significant influence or importance. Provide evidence or examples to substantiate the claim.

Common error

Avoid casually labeling a writer as a "major writer" without credible justification. Overuse diminishes the impact and accuracy of the term. Always consider the writer's actual influence, recognition, and body of work.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "major writer" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "major" modifies the noun "writer". It's used to describe a writer who is considered important, influential, or highly skilled. This aligns with Ludwig AI's assessment of the phrase as correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Encyclopedias

12%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "major writer" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe an author of significant influence, skill, or importance. As indicated by Ludwig AI, the phrase is widely used and accepted. It appears most frequently in news and media contexts, followed by encyclopedias. Alternatives like "significant author" or "prominent writer" can be used to convey similar meanings. When using the term, it's important to provide context and justification for labeling a writer as "major", ensuring that the assessment is supported by evidence of their impact and recognition.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

significant author

Emphasizes the importance and impact of the writer's work.

important author

Highlights the author's relevance and influence in their field.

leading writer

Focuses on the writer's prominent position and influence.

prominent author

Stresses the writer's high visibility and recognition.

esteemed author

Highlights the respect and admiration the writer receives.

notable writer

Emphasizes that the writer is worthy of attention.

renowned author

Focuses on the writer's widespread fame and recognition.

accomplished writer

Highlights the writer's skill and achievements.

influential author

Emphasizes the writer's power to affect readers or the literary landscape.

celebrated writer

Highlights the writer's popularity and public acclaim.

FAQs

How can I use "major writer" in a sentence?

You can use "major writer" to describe an author with significant influence and recognition. For example, "Toni Morrison is considered a "major writer" of contemporary American literature."

What are some alternatives to "major writer"?

Alternatives include "significant author", "prominent writer", or "influential writer", depending on the specific aspect you want to emphasize.

What distinguishes a "major writer" from a successful writer?

While successful writers may achieve commercial success, a "major writer" typically has a lasting impact on literature, culture, or thought, influencing subsequent generations of writers and readers.

Is it subjective to define someone as a "major writer"?

Yes, to some extent. While objective criteria like awards, critical acclaim, and sales figures can contribute to the assessment, ultimately, the designation of a writer as "major" involves a degree of subjective interpretation and historical perspective.