newman
newman — noun
1. Barnett Newman (1905–1970) — an American painter associated with abstract expres
Barnett Newman (1905–1970) — an American painter associated with abstract expressionism and color-field painting, whose works feature large, flat areas of color divided by thin vertical lines he called 'zips'.
Tunde's art history professor showed slides of Newman's paintings during the lecture on abstract expressionism.
surname used alone after first reference in context
The museum curator explained how Newman used thin vertical lines to create tension across his canvases.
collocation: Newman's canvases / his large canvases
Eri visited the exhibition showing Newman's work alongside other postwar American painters.
During the seminar, students discussed the emotional power of Newman's simple but striking color compositions.
Caleb compared Newman's use of pure color with that of his contemporary Mark Rothko.
comparative structure: compare X with Y
- Newman's canvases
- Newman's zips
- abstract expressionist works
- color-field painting
Usage Note
Frequently modified by the first name 'Barnett' in formal art-historical writing to distinguish the painter from other notable Newmans. Within art discourse the surname alone is sufficient once the referent is established.
Common Mistakes
2. John Henry Newman (1801–1890) — an English theologian, poet, and cardinal in the
John Henry Newman (1801–1890) — an English theologian, poet, and cardinal in the Catholic Church, known for his influential writings on education, religious faith, and the development of Christian doctrine.
Karim read Newman's 'The Idea of a University' for his education philosophy course last semester.
possessive: Newman's + title of work
The Catholic Church officially recognised Newman's contributions by declaring him a saint in 2019.
passive: was declared a saint
Élise found Newman's writings on faith surprisingly relevant to modern questions about personal belief.
Newman's conversion from Anglicanism to Catholicism shocked many friends and colleagues in Victorian England.
At Oxford, the college named after Newman hosts lectures on theology and Christian spirituality.
passive: named after [person]
- Newman's writings
- Newman's theology
- Newman's conversion
- Cardinal Newman
- Newman's university
Usage Note
In British religious and academic contexts, 'Cardinal Newman' is the standard respectful form. The title 'Cardinal' precedes the surname without a first name in formal references. The simple surname 'Newman' alone may cause ambiguity with the actor Paul Newman in non-specialist contexts.
Common Mistakes
3. Paul Newman (1925–2008) — an American actor, film director, and philanthropist,
Paul Newman (1925–2008) — an American actor, film director, and philanthropist, famous for his leading roles in films such as 'Cool Hand Luke' and 'The Sting', and for his food company Newman's Own which donates all profits to charity.
Sophia watched 'Cool Hand Luke' and thought Paul Newman gave a remarkable and moving performance.
full name: Paul Newman
Dario read that Newman's salad dressing company has donated over six hundred million dollars to charity.
possessive: Newman's + company name
The film critic called Newman one of the most charming actors of his generation.
passive: was called / described as
Vivek admired Newman for both his acting talent and his fifty-year marriage to Joanne Woodward.
paired structure: not only... but also...
Newman's blue eyes and relaxed smile made him a favourite Hollywood leading man for decades.
- Paul Newman film
- Newman's Own
- Newman's performance
- leading man
- Hollywood actor
Usage Note
The surname 'Newman' in general conversation most commonly refers to Paul Newman, especially in American English. For clarity in writing, use 'Paul Newman' at first mention and 'Newman' thereafter. His food brand 'Newman's Own' is widely recognised in the US and often discussed in business philanthropy contexts.