ordinary individual

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ordinary individual" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a typical person or someone who does not possess any extraordinary qualities or characteristics. Example: "In the eyes of society, an ordinary individual often leads a life that is unremarkable and routine."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

At the centre of the group of worshippers was no ordinary individual.

The Guardian

The border, he adds, has become "totally unimportant to the ordinary individual" working or shopping in Newry.

The Guardian

When it comes to the death of an ordinary individual, precision about time can help dull the sting.

The New York Times - Arts

He was forced to stick up for HMRC, after Jeremy Corbyn accused the government of having one rule for multinational corporations and another for ordinary individual taxpayers.

The Guardian

News International declined to divulge the advertiser's identity, but said the advert was placed by "an ordinary individual who was not affiliated to any party or any company".

The Guardian

The danger would be that an ordinary individual once they step out of their house will be monitored by a drone everywhere they walk or drive.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

In fact, there are two levels: ordinary, individual-level natural selection, whereby individuals strive to reproduce their own genes, and "group selection", an idea long ago dumped by biologists but now brought back to life.

The Guardian

Progressive Robin Hoods have turned their attention to robbing ordinary individuals.

The Economist

At present, it remains easier to extradite ordinary individuals suspected of straightforward crimes.

The Guardian

The idea that violence can be rationalised by seemingly ordinary individuals might leave us scared and hopeless.

The Guardian - Opinion

He does not recount the suffering of ordinary individuals because he has not met many of them.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context to determine if a more specific term like "average citizen" or "common man" would be more appropriate to convey the intended meaning.

Common error

While grammatically sound, "ordinary individual" can sometimes sound redundant or overly formal. In many cases, simply using "person" or "citizen" is more concise and natural. Avoid using "ordinary individual" when the ordinariness is already implied.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ordinary individual" primarily functions as a noun phrase, serving to identify or describe a person who is considered typical or unremarkable. Ludwig's examples illustrate its use in various contexts, emphasizing the commonality of the person being referred to.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Encyclopedias

15%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "ordinary individual" is a grammatically correct and commonly used noun phrase that refers to a typical or unremarkable person. As confirmed by Ludwig, it serves to emphasize the lack of exceptional qualities, contrasting them with figures of authority or those considered extraordinary. While versatile, it's important to consider the context and choose the most concise and natural phrasing; sometimes simpler terms like "person" or "citizen" may be more appropriate. The phrase appears frequently in news media and encyclopedic content, demonstrating its widespread applicability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

average person

Focuses on the typical qualities of a person.

common individual

Emphasizes the shared or widespread nature of the person.

typical person

Highlights conformity to a standard type.

everyday person

Stresses the routine or mundane aspects of the person's life.

regular person

Indicates adherence to established norms or practices.

average Joe

An idiomatic expression for a typical man.

common man

Highlights a person's lack of privilege or distinction.

person in the street

Emphasizes the public or collective nature of the person.

rank and file

Refers to members of an organization who are not leaders.

the average citizen

Focuses on a person's role and responsibilities within a society.

FAQs

How can I use "ordinary individual" in a sentence?

The phrase "ordinary individual" is used to describe a person who is not special or distinguished in any way. For example: "The law should protect the rights of every "ordinary individual"."

What's a more concise way to say "ordinary individual"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "person", "citizen", "average person", or "common man" to convey a similar meaning in a more succinct way.

Is it always necessary to include "ordinary" when referring to an individual?

No, it's not always necessary. The word "ordinary" is used to emphasize that the individual is not exceptional or special. If that emphasis isn't needed, you can simply use "individual" or "person".

Which is more appropriate: "ordinary individual" or "average person"?

Both "ordinary individual" and "average person" are acceptable, but they have slightly different connotations. "Ordinary individual" can sound more formal, while "average person" is more common in everyday conversation.