Definition

Noun: A hypothetical average man; an ordinary, typical, or unspecified person. This term is used to refer to a generic individual, often when discussing general scenarios, rights, or responsibilities that apply to everyone.

Usage

This term functions as a singular, countable noun. It is typically used in informal American English to represent a non-specific, average person in examples or hypothetical situations. It often carries a slightly dismissive or neutral tone, emphasizing commonality rather than individuality.

Examples

• In a sentence:
• In a sentence:
• In a sentence:

Advanced Usage

• As a placeholder name: The term is commonly used in legal, political, or technical writing as a placeholder for an unspecified citizen or user. For example:
• Emphasizing universality: It is used to make a point about something being true for the average person. For example:

Variants and Related Words

• John Doe: A more formal placeholder name, often used in legal contexts for an unidentified male party.
• Average Joe: A very close synonym, also meaning an ordinary man. The two terms are often interchangeable.
• Jane Doe: The female equivalent placeholder name.
• Everyman: A literary term for an ordinary individual who represents humankind.

Synonyms

• Average Joe
• Common man
• Everyman
• John Q. Public
• The man on the street

Idioms and Fixed Phrases

• Any Tom, Dick, or Harry / Any Joe Blow: This phrase emphasizes that something is accessible to or can be done by absolutely anyone, often with a negative connotation of being unselective. For example:

Noun

1. a hypothetical average man