singular self

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "singular self" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to an individual's unique identity or essence, often in discussions about personal identity or philosophy. Example: "In her latest book, she explores the concept of the singular self and how it shapes our experiences."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

Palin incarnates the latest version, which is a politics not of "special interests" but of the singular self.

The New Yorker

In fact, the idea that "the unified singular self is an illusion" could be the leitmotif of this collection.

The New York Times - Books

Shortly after riffing on Kael's great New Yorker Profile of Cary Grant, "The Man From Dream City," she writes that Dream City is a place of many voices, where the unified singular self is an illusion.

The New Yorker

Obama's description, in his memoir, of the liminal position he occupied between his mother's and his father's worlds prompted her to imagine Dream City, a fantastical place "of many voices, where the unified singular self is an illusion".

The New Yorker

"Today our intense cultivation of a singular self is tied up in the drive to constantly produce and update," argues Geert Lovink, research professor of interactive media at the Hogeschool van Amsterdam and author of Networks Without a Cause: A Critique of Social Media.

The Guardian - Tech

In that re-orientation, the singular self is re-configured, both in terms of its placement in the world, but also in terms of its own constitution.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

"Gaslight divided light — and life — from its singular, self-reliant past.

The New York Times - Science

In one study, they found that poets who in their work used more first-person singular self-references throughout their careers were more likely to commit suicide.

The New York Times - Science

"I could say I've watched Stacy grow, but the truth is that she's always been a very singular, self-created performer, even as a student," Ms. Parson said.

The New York Times - Arts

In Brexit, however, the British people are undergoing a singular self-reckoning, with who we are, and what we want to be.

The New Yorker

He did as much as the economic rise of China and India has done to undermine America's short-lived post-Cold War status as a singular, self-confident, seemingly omnipotent superpower.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To enhance clarity, particularly in non-academic contexts, consider using alternatives like "unique identity" or "individual essence" if "singular self" seems too abstract.

Common error

Avoid using "singular self" in casual conversation or informal writing; it often sounds overly formal or pretentious. Opt for simpler terms like "individual" or "unique person".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "singular self" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically refers to an individual's unique and unified sense of identity. Ludwig AI shows this phrase often appears in contexts exploring personal identity and philosophical concepts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Social Media

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "singular self" is a grammatically sound noun phrase used to describe an individual's unique identity. While Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability, it also indicates that its usage is most appropriate in academic, philosophical, and psychological contexts. Alternatives such as "unique identity" or "individual essence" may be suitable for more general communication. The phrase appears frequently in News & Media and Science. Therefore, while technically correct, writers should consider their audience and the formality of the setting when choosing to employ the term "singular self".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

self-identity

A more compact way of referring to the identity related to the self.

unique self

Emphasizes the distinctiveness of the self, using a more direct adjective.

individual identity

Focuses on the uniqueness of one's identity rather than the concept of self.

personal essence

Highlights the core nature of an individual, moving away from the term 'self'.

the unified self

Highlights the concept of the self as a coherent and integrated whole.

distinct individuality

Stresses the quality of being individual and different from others.

integrated self

Emphasizes the coherence and harmony within one's self-concept.

one's own identity

Focuses on the possessive aspect of identity, emphasizing self-ownership.

core identity

Stresses the fundamental and unchanging aspects of one's identity.

the individual's core

Highlights the essential and central aspect of a person's being.

FAQs

How can I use "singular self" in a sentence?

You might say, "The philosopher explored the concept of the "singular self" and its role in shaping personal experiences" or "Understanding the "singular self" is crucial for developing a strong sense of identity."

What are some alternatives to "singular self"?

Alternatives include "unique identity", "individual essence", or "personal identity" depending on the specific context.

Is "singular self" a common phrase?

While grammatically correct, "singular self" is more common in academic or philosophical discussions than in everyday conversation. Its frequency is considered common.

What is the difference between "singular self" and "individual self"?

"Singular self" emphasizes the unique and indivisible nature of one's self, while "individual self" simply highlights that it pertains to a single person. The former is more nuanced and often used in theoretical contexts.