Lapp

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Lapp" is correct and usable in written English, though it is considered outdated and potentially offensive.
It can be used when referring to the indigenous Sámi people of northern Scandinavia, but it is advisable to use "Sámi" instead to show respect for their identity. Example: "The Lapp culture is rich in traditions and history, but it is important to refer to the people as Sámi."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

37 human-written examples

Sweden has two minority groups of indigenous inhabitants: the Finnish-speaking people of the northeast along the Finnish border, and the Sami (Lapp) population of about 15,000 scattered throughout the northern Swedish interior.

Encyclopedia Britannica

One tableau, for example, included a Sami (Lapp) family with reindeer and sledge.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"Lapland" was originally a pejorative term deriving either from the Scandinavian word "lapp" meaning patch of cloth or the Finnish "lape" denoting remoteness.

Independent

Kobdas, magic drum used for trance induction and divination by the Lapp shaman, or noiade.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Finnic contains the remaining languages: the Baltic-Finnic languages, the Sami (or Lapp) languages, Mordvin, Mari, and the Permic tongues.

Encyclopedia Britannica

To speak of a single Sami (or Lapp) language is therefore misleading.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

The Lapp-Dance chain of folk clubs in Scandinavia was sold to a trade buyer who relaunched them for an adult audience.There has been speculation, too, that Santa wants to cut back on his business commitments in order to launch a political career in one of the many countries where he could claim citizenship, possibly Canada.

The Economist

"You only get one chance to pollinate over 1 quadrillion kernels," said Bill Lapp, president of Advanced Economic Solutions, a Omaha-based commodity consulting firm: "There's always some level of angst at this time of year, but it's significantly greater now and with good reason.

The Guardian - Opinion

Last year the company, owned by Francis Lapp, a French investor, had its best year in its 11-year history, launching 11 of its ultra-modern, sleek yachts, made on the former premises of the Gdansk shipyard.

The Economist

For example, cognates designating certain types of spruce are found in all the Uralic languages except Hungarian (Finnish kuusi, Sami [Lapp] guossâ, Mordvin kuz, Komi koz, Khanty kol, Nenets xādy, Selkup kūt).

Encyclopedia Britannica

In the early encounters with David and Miriam Lapp (the surname of Kelly McGillis's character in Witness), the makers begged to have the black blinds removed from the windows so indoor filming would be possible.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

While "Lapp" is technically correct, use "Sami" to refer to the people and their language, as it's the term preferred by the community and considered more respectful. Using preferred terminology shows cultural sensitivity.

Common error

Avoid using "Lapp" without understanding its historical context. The term can be perceived as derogatory. Always ensure your audience is aware that you're referring to the Sami people before using the term, or simply opt for "Sami" instead.

Linguistic Context

The term "Lapp" functions primarily as a noun to denote an indigenous person from Lapland, one of the Sami people, or the language they speak. Ludwig indicates the term is correct, but potentially insensitive in modern usage. This is demonstrated in examples from encyclopedias and news media referencing the Sami people and their language.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Encyclopedias

30%

News & Media

60%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while grammatically correct, the term "Lapp" is increasingly viewed as outdated and potentially offensive. Ludwig analysis of multiple sources, including Encyclopedia Britannica and The Guardian, underlines that it is safer and more respectful to use "Sami" when referring to the indigenous people of Lapland and their language. The term's communicative purpose, historically used for identification, is now overshadowed by concerns about cultural sensitivity. Although it may appear in neutral contexts, exercising caution and preferring "Sami" is advisable in modern communication. Usage patterns reveal frequent occurrences in encyclopedias and news media, but this does not negate the need for mindful language choice. Therefore, while "Lapp" may be technically correct, "Sami" demonstrates greater respect and awareness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Sami people

Replaces the term "Lapp" with the preferred and more respectful term for the indigenous people of Lapland.

Saami population

Another accepted term for the "Lapp" ethnic group, emphasizing the population aspect.

Indigenous inhabitants of Lapland

A descriptive phrase that avoids the term "Lapp" altogether, focusing on geographical origin and indigenous status.

People of Sápmi

Uses the indigenous name for Lapland (Sápmi) to refer to its inhabitants, thus avoiding "Lapp".

Northern Scandinavian natives

Broader term, yet refers to "Lapp" by indicating their geographic origin and native status.

Inhabitants of Lapland

Geographically descriptive, sidestepping direct ethnic designation for "Lapp".

Laplanders

An alternative term, though still related to the region, and less preferred than "Sami".

Sámi language speakers

Focuses on the linguistic aspect, linking it to the ethnic group without using "Lapp".

Arctic indigenous group

Describes the "Lapp" people by their environmental niche and indigenous status.

Reindeer herding communities of Scandinavia

Highlights a traditional occupation associated with the Sami, instead of calling them "Lapp".

FAQs

Is it appropriate to use the term "Lapp" to refer to the Sami people?

While historically used, "Lapp" is now often considered outdated and potentially offensive. It's generally recommended to use "Sami people" instead, as it is the term preferred by the community.

What does the term "Lapp" mean?

Historically, "Lapp" referred to the Sami people inhabiting Lapland. However, the term's origins are debated, with some theories suggesting it was a pejorative term. Today, "Sami" is the more appropriate term.

Are "Lapp" and "Laplander" interchangeable with "Sami"?

While all three terms relate to the people of Lapland, "Sami" is the preferred and most respectful term. "Laplander" might be acceptable in some geographical contexts, but "Lapp" is generally discouraged.

How can I ensure I'm using respectful language when referring to the Sami people and their culture?

Always use "Sami people" instead of "Lapp". Educate yourself on their history, culture, and current issues. Respect their traditions and avoid making assumptions or stereotypes.