layman
/'leimən/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- A person who is not a member of the clergy; a member of the laity: In religious contexts, a layman is someone who is not an ordained minister, priest, or other religious professional.
- A person without professional or specialized knowledge in a particular subject: A layman is someone who lacks the expert training or deep knowledge of a professional in a given field.
Examples of Usage
- Noun:
- The priest gave a sermon that was accessible to both clergy and laymen.
- The doctor explained the procedure in layman's terms so the patient could understand.
- As a layman in legal matters, I needed to consult a lawyer.
Advanced Usage
"in layman's terms": Using simple, non-technical language that a non-expert can understand.
- The scientist described the complex theory in layman's terms.
"to the layman": From the perspective of a non-expert.
- To the layman, all modern art might look the same.
Variants and Related Words
Layperson (n): A more modern, gender-neutral synonym for 'layman'.
- The course is designed for both professionals and laypersons.
Laity (n): The collective body of religious laypeople, as distinct from the clergy.
- The new policy was discussed with both the clergy and the laity.
Laywoman (n): A female layperson.
- She was a dedicated laywoman in her parish.
Synonyms
- Non-expert: A person without specialized knowledge.
- Amateur: A person who engages in a pursuit without professional skill (can imply less seriousness than 'layman').
- Outsider: A person not belonging to a particular group or profession.
Antonyms
- Expert: A person with extensive knowledge or skill.
- Professional: A person engaged in a specified activity as a paid occupation.
- Specialist: A person who concentrates on a specific subject or activity.
- Clergyman: An ordained male Christian minister or priest.
Noun
- someone who is not a clergyman or a professional person