ordinary person

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ordinary person" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to anyone who is typical or average, as opposed to someone extraordinary. For example: "The average voter is an ordinary person who is concerned about everyday issues."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"I'm just an ordinary person".

The New York Times

But I'm just an ordinary person.

The New Yorker

"She is no longer an ordinary person.

The New York Times

"She is the most ordinary person.

The New York Times - Magazine

It's about an ordinary person".

The Guardian - Film

Gould, doesn't consider himself an "ordinary person".

The New Yorker

I'm just a plain ordinary person.

The New York Times

But the ordinary person experienced little benefit.

The New York Times - Magazine

No ordinary person could do all this.

The New York Times - Magazine

But Mrs. Astor was no ordinary person.

The New York Times

You wanted to be – an ordinary person?

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "ordinary person" when you want to emphasize that someone is typical, average, or not particularly special or noteworthy. It is useful in contrasting someone to an expert, celebrity, or someone in a position of power.

Common error

While "ordinary person" is widely understood, in highly formal or academic writing, consider using more precise or nuanced language, such as "average citizen" or "typical individual", depending on the specific context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ordinary person" functions primarily as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It is used to identify or describe an individual who is considered typical or unremarkable, distinguishing them from someone exceptional or noteworthy. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "ordinary person" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe an average or typical individual. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage and applicability in various contexts. It is frequently used in news, media, and informal conversations to denote someone unremarkable or without special status. While synonyms like "average individual" or "typical person" exist, "ordinary person" remains a straightforward and easily understood option. When writing, ensure that the tone is appropriate for the context, considering that more formal settings might benefit from more precise language. The phrase serves to emphasize commonality, especially when contrasting with individuals of power or fame.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

average individual

Replaces "person" with "individual", implying a slightly more formal tone while retaining the core meaning.

typical person

Substitutes "ordinary" with "typical", emphasizing the common or representative nature of the person.

everyday individual

Similar to "average individual", but conveys a sense of normalcy and routine.

common person

Emphasizes the lack of distinction or special qualities in the individual.

average Joe

An informal idiom for a typical or unremarkable man.

plain person

Focuses on the simplicity and lack of pretension of the individual.

regular person

Indicates someone who is not exceptional or extraordinary in any way.

typical Joe

An informal and colloquial alternative to "average Joe".

run-of-the-mill person

Emphasizes the lack of uniqueness or distinction.

garden-variety person

Uses a metaphor to convey the idea of something being common and unremarkable.

FAQs

What does the phrase "ordinary person" mean?

The phrase "ordinary person" refers to a typical, average individual, someone who is not particularly special, famous, or powerful. It's used to describe someone who is just like anyone else.

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

You can use "ordinary person" to contrast someone with someone exceptional. For example, "While celebrities have many privileges, the government should also think about the "average individual"".

What are some synonyms for "ordinary person"?

Some alternatives to "ordinary person" include "average individual", "typical person", "common person", or "average Joe".

Is it better to say "ordinary person" or "normal person"?

While both are similar, "ordinary person" emphasizes the lack of special qualities, while "normal person" focuses on conforming to typical behavior or characteristics. The choice depends on the specific context; using "ordinary person" highlights the lack of distinction and using "normal person" highlights typical attributes.