stupid person

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "stupid person" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone perceived as lacking intelligence or common sense, often in a derogatory manner. Example: "I can't believe he forgot his own birthday; what a stupid person."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

So while she's definitely not a stupid person, she is completely ignorant about black/white politics (stupidity, remember, is inherent and can't be changed; ignorance just means you haven't learned about something, and can be cured).

Huffington Post

"Spamming makes you a stupid person.

The New York Times - Tech

Even a stupid person would not do what I did".

The Guardian

Only a stupid person would not be afraid".

The Guardian

"Only a stupid person would say it doesn't work," Trump said.

The New Yorker

Moog said, "It is proof that you are a stupid person".

The New Yorker

" 'Idealist' equals an insane person, or a stupid person, or an idiot.

The New York Times

"I've never seen anything wrong and I'm not a stupid person".

The New York Times

"It's minimally designed to make sure that even the most stupid person can work it and understand it," he said.

The New York Times

We do lots of double acts - the way we write is two people talking, a stupid person and a slightly less stupid person, which is all very Laurel and Hardy, so in that respect it is very traditional".

The Guardian

Rex Tillerson, displaying a scholarly streak that surprised his colleagues, pointed out that Merriam-Webster defined "dope" as "a stupid person," while "moron," the word Tillerson had used to describe the President, was defined as "a very stupid person".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context and audience when using the phrase "stupid person" as it can be considered offensive. Opt for milder alternatives like "uninformed" or "misguided" in professional or sensitive settings.

Common error

Avoid using "stupid person" in formal or academic writing. It is too informal and can be seen as unprofessional. Instead, use more precise and respectful language to describe a lack of understanding or flawed reasoning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "stupid person" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject or object in a sentence. It's used to label or describe someone perceived as lacking intelligence or common sense. Ludwig AI validates this usage with numerous examples across diverse sources.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "stupid person" is a common noun phrase used to describe someone perceived as lacking intelligence. While grammatically correct, Ludwig AI highlights its potential for causing offense, suggesting more neutral alternatives like "ignorant person" in formal contexts. Its usage is frequent in news and media, and wiki sources but less so in academic or business settings. Therefore, consider the audience and purpose when using this phrase to ensure respectful communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

dumb person

A more informal and slightly less harsh way to describe someone lacking intelligence.

brainless person

Suggests a lack of thought or intelligence.

idiotic person

A stronger term implying a higher degree of stupidity or foolishness.

foolish individual

A more formal and less offensive way to describe someone who is not wise.

senseless person

Emphasizes a lack of reason or understanding.

mindless person

Implies a lack of awareness or consideration.

daft person

A more British English term for someone who is foolish or slightly crazy.

silly person

Suggests foolishness or lack of seriousness.

ludicrous person

Highlights the absurdity or ridiculousness of the person's actions or beliefs.

ignorant person

Focuses on a lack of knowledge or awareness, rather than inherent intelligence.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "stupid person"?

You can use alternatives like "dumb person", "foolish individual", or "ignorant person" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to call someone a "stupid person"?

Calling someone a "stupid person" is generally considered rude and offensive. It's better to use more respectful and constructive language when addressing someone's intelligence or understanding.

What's the difference between "stupid person" and "ignorant person"?

"Stupid person" implies a lack of inherent intelligence, while "ignorant person" suggests a lack of knowledge or awareness about a particular subject. Ignorance can be remedied through education, while stupidity is often perceived as a fixed trait.

How can I use the phrase "stupid person" in a sentence?

You can use "stupid person" to express disapproval or frustration with someone's actions or beliefs. For example: "Only a "stupid person" would believe that." However, be mindful of the potential to offend.