a lanyard

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a lanyard" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a cord or strap worn around the neck, often used to hold items like ID badges or keys. Example: "Please make sure to wear a lanyard with your identification badge at all times during the conference."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

So was a lanyard.

The New York Times - Travel

"Carol got a whistle on a lanyard.

The New Yorker

Every participant wears a badge on a lanyard.

The New Yorker

She got a tin whistle on a lanyard".

The New Yorker

He hung the.38 around his neck on a lanyard.

The New Yorker

On the park's flagpole a lanyard clanged in the breeze.

The New Yorker

Flintlocks pulled by a lanyard, instead of match, fired the guns.

Encyclopedia Britannica

LILY LI wears a lanyard with a little plastic card around her neck, even at weekends.

The Economist

The sailor died swinging, as if by a lanyard, in the empty air above his bed.

The New Yorker

She smiled as she held up a lanyard bearing her delegate's credentials so they could see.

The Washington Post

On a lanyard around his neck, he displayed an official looking ID.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing events or conferences, use "a lanyard" to realistically portray attendee attire and access mechanisms.

Common error

Avoid using "a lanyard" when a more specific term like "neck strap" or "badge holder" would provide better clarity and context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a lanyard" functions primarily as a noun phrase, identifying a specific object. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. Examples show it referring to a cord or strap used to hold items around the neck.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

86%

Science

7%

Encyclopedias

1%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Wiki

1%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a lanyard" is a common and grammatically sound noun phrase referring to a cord or strap worn around the neck, often for holding items like badges or keys. As Ludwig AI highlights, it is used across diverse contexts, primarily in news and media, but also in scientific and encyclopedic content. The phrase serves a descriptive purpose, identifying a specific object and providing context. While generally neutral in register, it’s important to consider context and choose a more specific term if needed, such as "a neck strap" or "a badge holder", for enhanced clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a neck strap

This alternative focuses on the strap worn around the neck, emphasizing its function.

a neck cord

This explicitly states that the cord is worn around the neck.

a badge holder

This term highlights the purpose of holding a badge, which is a common use for lanyards.

identification badge holder

This specifies that the lanyard is used to hold an identification badge.

a hanging strap

This describes the lanyard's function of allowing something to hang from it.

security pass holder

This alternative is relevant when the lanyard is used for holding a security pass.

a cord

This is a simpler, more generic term referring to the cord itself, without specifying its use.

a strap

Similar to "a cord", this is a broader term for a strip of material used for fastening or carrying something.

a credential holder

This is a more formal way of saying badge holder.

a key strap

Refers to the specific function of holding keys.

FAQs

How is "a lanyard" typically used?

A lanyard is commonly used to hold identification badges, keys, or other small items around the neck, allowing for easy access and visibility.

What can I say instead of "a lanyard"?

You can use alternatives like "a neck strap", "a badge holder", or "a key strap" depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to wear "a lanyard" in a formal setting?

While generally acceptable for professional environments requiring identification, consider whether a more discreet "badge clip" or pocket holder might be more suitable for very formal occasions.

What materials are "a lanyard" typically made from?

Lanyards can be made from various materials, including nylon, polyester, cotton, or even leather. The material often depends on the intended use and aesthetic preferences.