personal whim

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'personal whim' is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase is often used to refer to an individual's specific preference or choice that has no rational explanation. For example, "He decided to move to Paris on a personal whim."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

Hyperactive aesthetes can rearrange the discs according to personal whim.

The New York Times

Similarly, the disastrous invasion of Greece appears to have been the result of Mussolini's personal whim.

The New York Times - Books

But, he argues, his changes grow out of solid research, not personal whim.

The New York Times

But these outcomes are the product of political strategy, not personal whim.

The Guardian - Opinion

Chesterton's vision has no room in it for tolerance, except as a likable personal whim or an idiosyncratic national trait.

The New Yorker

There were the usual breakaways by unheralded riders, either under team orders or just on a personal whim to have a little personal space.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

"It is based on politics and personal whims, not nutrition science," Mr. Berg said.

The New York Times

"I am not an atomic playboy, exploding these bombs to satisfy my personal whims".

The New Yorker

Good works are still seen as corporate philanthropy in America, says Mr Kell, often dished out according to the personal whims of the boss.

The Economist

He added, "If the president is allowed to suspend constitutional rights on his own personal whims, our free republic has effectively ceased to exist".

The New York Times

Borrowing for consumption of things like vacations, luxury items or personal whims, fantasy, vanity and extravagance can be hazardous when an economic downturn occurs.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "personal whim", consider whether a more descriptive phrase might provide clarity or nuance to your writing. While it conveys a sense of impulsiveness, specifying the emotion or motivation behind the whim can enhance understanding.

Common error

Avoid using "personal whim" as a blanket explanation for actions without providing context. While it indicates a lack of logical reasoning, it's more effective to hint at the underlying feeling or circumstances that prompted the decision.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "personal whim" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically acts as the object of a preposition or a subject complement, describing the underlying cause or motivation for an action, as Ludwig's examples demonstrate.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Reference

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "personal whim" is a noun phrase that describes a decision or action driven by a sudden, often irrational, impulse. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and suitable for general use, primarily appearing in news and media contexts. The phrase conveys spontaneity and a lack of careful planning, making it a useful tool for describing impulsive behaviors or choices. While often neutral, it's important to use "personal whim" thoughtfully and consider whether a more specific description might enhance clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

individual impulse

Emphasizes the sudden urge originating from an individual.

capricious decision

Highlights the unpredictable and whimsical nature of the decision.

arbitrary choice

Focuses on the lack of rationale or system in the selection.

impulsive action

Stresses the spontaneous and unplanned nature of the action.

subjective preference

Indicates a decision based on personal taste rather than objective criteria.

personal inclination

Highlights a natural tendency or liking that guides the decision.

spontaneous desire

Focuses on the sudden and unprompted wish that drives the action.

whimsical notion

Emphasizes the fanciful and imaginative nature of the idea.

idiosyncratic impulse

Highlights the unique and peculiar nature of the driving force.

unpremeditated act

Stresses the lack of planning or forethought in the action.

FAQs

How can I use "personal whim" in a sentence?

You can use "personal whim" to describe a decision or action that is based on a sudden desire or impulse rather than logic or planning. For example, "She decided to dye her hair pink on a "personal whim"".

What's a good substitute for "personal whim"?

Alternatives to "personal whim" include "individual impulse", "capricious decision", or "arbitrary choice". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always negative to act on a "personal whim"?

Not necessarily. Acting on a "personal whim" can sometimes lead to positive experiences or unexpected opportunities, though it often implies a lack of careful consideration.

What is the difference between a "personal whim" and a 'calculated decision'?

A "personal whim" is impulsive and based on immediate desire, while a 'calculated decision' involves careful thought and planning. A "personal whim" is spontaneous, whereas a calculated decision is strategic.