not a god

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "not a god" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express that someone or something does not possess divine qualities or is not considered a deity. Example: "He may be a brilliant scientist, but he is not a god; he makes mistakes like everyone else."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

"Not a god".

The New Yorker

Dawood is not a god for me.

The New York Times

"Unfortunately I am not a god.

The New York Times

"Everyone knows that God is not a God of lies.

The New York Times

Winfrey asked Nyad: "You told our producers you're not a God person, but you're deeply in awe?" Nyad replied: "Yeah, I'm not a God person.

Independent

… The people need to be shown that he is not a god, that he is man".

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

The city's status as a financial centre is not a God-given right.

The Economist

Driving in the left lane is not a God-given right.

The New York Times

It's not a God-given gift that you either have or you don't.

Forbes

"It's not a God-given right that you're given the opportunity and the honour to represent your country," said the former Wales hooker.

BBC

If there isn't a God, it would be chaotic, they claim.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using this phrase to dispel exaggerated perceptions or expectations of someone, grounding the narrative in reality.

Common error

While versatile, avoid using "not a god" excessively in very casual conversations. Simpler alternatives, like "just human" or "makes mistakes", might be more appropriate and natural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not a god" functions as a negation, specifically denying divine status or superhuman qualities. It's often used to temper excessive admiration or to highlight the human limitations of individuals who are often idealized, as supported by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "not a god" is a grammatically correct and very common expression used to negate divinity or highlight human limitations. According to Ludwig AI, its primary function is negation, serving the purpose of correcting perceptions or dispelling illusions. Its register is generally neutral, suitable for a variety of contexts, including news, academic discussions, and online forums. While frequently used, consider simpler alternatives in very informal settings. The phrase appears most often in News & Media, Academia, and Wiki sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not divine

Focuses specifically on the lack of divine qualities.

not a deity

A more formal way of saying "not a god".

merely human

Emphasizes the human limitations in contrast to divine abilities.

only mortal

Highlights the mortality and impermanence of the subject.

not supernatural

Denies any supernatural powers or origins.

just a person

Simplifies the concept to basic human terms.

not an immortal being

Specifically denies immortality.

not all-powerful

Focuses on the lack of omnipotence.

not infallible

Highlights the capacity to make mistakes.

fundamentally human

Emphasizes the core humanity, despite appearances.

FAQs

How can I use "not a god" in a sentence?

You can use "not a god" to indicate that someone or something is not divine or perfect. For example: "The CEO, while influential, is "not a god" and is prone to errors."

What's the difference between "not a god" and "not divine"?

"Not a god" is a more direct and commonly used phrase, while "not divine" is more formal and emphasizes the lack of godly qualities.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "not a god"?

It's appropriate when you want to emphasize that someone, despite their achievements or perceived status, is still human and fallible, or to negate claims of deification.

Are there any situations where "not a god" might be considered insensitive?

Using "not a god" could be insensitive if directed towards someone who is genuinely revered or worshipped within a religious context. Consider the audience and the potential for misinterpretation.