Explaining "No man is an island"

Reviewed and edited by

Lloyd Cooper 06/10/2024, 02:24

English.me team member

What does it mean?

The phrase "No man is an island" means that no one is self-sufficient; everyone relies on others to some extent. It highlights the interconnectedness of human beings and emphasizes the necessity of community and support from others.

Tone

Reflective and philosophical

Origin

The phrase originates from a sermon by the English poet John Donne, published in 1624 as part of his work "Devotions upon Emergent Occasions."

Examples of usage

Even though he preferred solitude, he eventually understood that no man is an island, and reached out to his friends for help.
The community project taught the children that no man is an island, and working together can achieve more than working alone.