man of letters (english) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

Noun phrase

Phonetic Transcription

/mæn əv ˈlɛtərz/

Meaning and Usage

The phrase "man of letters" refers to a person, typically a writer, scholar, or intellectual, who is engaged in literature or scholarly pursuits. This term implies a certain level of education and a commitment to writing, often in a formal or literary context. It is more commonly found in written contexts, particularly in literature or discussions about literary figures, than in everyday oral speech.

Frequency of Use

While "man of letters" is not a phrase that is used frequently in contemporary English, it has historical significance, especially in the context of classical literature and discussions of authorship, literature, and intellectual discourse.

Example Sentences

1. The renowned man of letters spoke eloquently about the role of literature in society.

2. Известный человек словесности красноречиво говорил о роли литературы в обществе.

3. Many aspiring writers look up to the great man of letters who influenced the literary world.

4. Многие начинающие писатели смотрят на великого человека словесности, который оказал влияние на литературный мир.

5. As a man of letters, he published several novels that captivated readers.

6. Будучи человеком словесности, он опубликовал несколько романов, которые захватили внимание читателей.

Idiomatic Expressions

The phrase "man of letters" can be part of idiomatic expressions that refer to literary or scholarly achievement. Here are some examples:

1. He is not just a man of letters, but a man of action who puts his ideas into practice.

2. Он не просто человек словесности, но и человек действия, который претворяет свои идеи в жизнь.

3. In the literary world, being a man of letters means you must continuously enhance your craft.

4. В литературном мире быть человеком словесности значит постоянно совершенствовать свое мастерство.

5. The man of letters held the audience rapt with his tales of adventure and thought.

6. Человек словесности держал аудиторию в восторге своими рассказами о приключениях и размышлениях.

7. Rather than being dismissive, he embraced every man of letters with open arms.

8. Вместо того чтобы отвергать, он встречал каждого человека словесности с распростертыми объятиями.

9. Every man of letters has their unique journey and challenges in the pursuit of knowledge.

10. У каждого человека словесности свой уникальный путь и свои трудности в стремлении к знаниям.

Etymology

The term "man of letters" has its roots in the late 17th century, primarily derived from the concept of 'letters' as in written works, especially those relating to literature and scholarly endeavors. "Man" simply refers to a male individual, but the term has historically been used more broadly to denote any person engaged in literary activities, regardless of gender.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Literary figure - Scholar - Author - Intellectual

Antonyms: - Ignoramus - Uneducated person - Layperson

This comprehensive overview should provide a robust understanding of the phrase "man of letters" in various contexts.