a degree of name-dropping

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a degree of name-dropping" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where someone mentions the names of famous or influential people to impress others or lend credibility to their statements. Example: "During the meeting, there was a degree of name-dropping as several attendees mentioned their connections to well-known industry leaders."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

A degree of name-dropping develops.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Looking back, maybe there was a lot of name-dropping.

The New Yorker

Make a habit of name-dropping.

WikiHow

Think of this as a tasteful, appropriate form of name-dropping.

Huffington Post

Refine the art of "name dropping" and "event dropping.

WikiHow

"There's a degree of predictability with brand-name publishing," says Peter Lampack, Clive Cussler's agent.

Forbes

Also, when a doctor earns a degree of recognition for a scientific contribution, Dr. Koopman said: "Do you drop the name because of something else they did?

The New York Times - Health

That Mr. Rubin was named chairman and not interim chairman suggested a degree of urgency.

The New York Times

A simple name and password code was devised to create a degree of privacy.

The Guardian - Tech

A degree of secrecy was a must.

The New York Times

"There's a degree of paternalism.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a degree of name-dropping" to subtly indicate the presence of name-dropping without making it the central focus of your description. For example, instead of saying "The speaker engaged in excessive name-dropping", you could say "There was a degree of name-dropping during the speaker's presentation".

Common error

Avoid relying too heavily on "a degree of name-dropping" as it can become repetitive. Vary your language by using alternatives like "some name-dropping" or "a touch of name-dropping" for stylistic variation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a degree of name-dropping" functions as a noun phrase that quantifies the extent to which someone is mentioning famous names, often to impress others or gain credibility. As Ludwig AI suggests, it is a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a degree of name-dropping" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that suggests the presence of name-dropping to some extent. Ludwig AI indicates that it's suitable for describing situations where mentioning famous names occurs without being overwhelming. While not excessively frequent, it's found primarily in news and media contexts. When using this phrase, consider alternatives like "some name-dropping" for stylistic variation and avoid overusing the phrase to maintain clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

some name-dropping

Implies a lesser extent or casual instance of mentioning famous names.

a touch of name-dropping

Suggests a subtle or delicate instance of mentioning famous names.

a hint of name-dropping

Indicates an indirect or subtle reference to famous connections.

an instance of name-dropping

Highlights a specific occurrence of mentioning famous names.

strategic name-dropping

Focuses on the intentional use of mentioning famous names for a specific purpose.

excessive name-dropping

Implies an overuse or exaggerated instance of mentioning famous names.

blatant name-dropping

Describes a very obvious and often tasteless instance of mentioning famous names.

calculated name-dropping

Emphasizes the deliberate and planned nature of mentioning famous names.

unintentional name-dropping

Suggests the mentioning of famous names was accidental or inadvertent.

subtle name-dropping

Highlights the discreet nature of mentioning famous names.

FAQs

How can I use "a degree of name-dropping" in a sentence?

You can use "a degree of name-dropping" to describe situations where there's some, but not overwhelming, mentioning of famous people to impress or add credibility. Example: "The interview featured "a degree of name-dropping", which made it feel less authentic."

What are some alternatives to "a degree of name-dropping"?

Alternatives include "some name-dropping", "a touch of name-dropping", or "an instance of name-dropping", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "a high degree of name-dropping"?

Yes, "a high degree of name-dropping" is grammatically correct and can be used to describe a situation where there's a lot of mentioning famous names.

What's the difference between "a degree of name-dropping" and "name-dropping"?

"Name-dropping" refers to the act itself, while "a degree of name-dropping" implies a certain extent or level of that act. It suggests that name-dropping occurred, but not necessarily excessively.