a loaded term

USAGE SUMMARY

"a loaded term" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe a word or phrase that carries a strong emotional or ideological connotation, often with the intention of influencing the reader or listener. Here is an example sentence using "a loaded term": "His use of the term 'fake news' was a deliberate attempt to manipulate the audience's emotions, as it is a loaded term often associated with undermining the credibility of the media."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He told the Harrison Daily Times (subscription required) that "the word, 'racist' is a loaded term, loaded against white people.

Vice

"The word, 'racist' is a loaded term -- loaded against white people," the man said.

Huffington Post

That is a loaded term.

The Economist

Luck is a loaded term.

The Guardian

Middlebrow is such a loaded term.

The Guardian - Books

'Community is such a loaded term......

The Guardian

"Official biography" is a loaded term.

The New York Times

"It seems to be a loaded term," Lori says.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"That's a loaded term from a gender perspective.

The Guardian

"Populism" is a loaded term in modern American politics.

The New York Times

In Washington today, "bipartisan" is a loaded term.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a loaded term", be specific about the connotations and implications associated with it. This adds clarity and strengthens your argument.

Common error

Avoid simply labeling a term as "a loaded term" without explaining why. Provide context and detail the specific connotations or implications that make it so. If you don't explain yourself, it can weaken your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a loaded term" functions as a descriptor, typically used to characterize a word or phrase that carries significant emotional, ideological, or historical weight. As Ludwig AI confirms, it highlights the potential for subjective interpretation and strong reactions. Examples show it used to qualify terms across various domains.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

97%

Science

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a loaded term" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe words or phrases carrying strong emotional or ideological connotations. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage, indicating its role in highlighting potential biases and subjective interpretations. Predominantly found in news and media sources, this phrase serves to alert audiences to the non-neutral nature of certain language. Effective use involves explaining the specific connotations that make the term "loaded", avoiding mere labeling without context. Alternatives like "value-laden term" and "politically charged term" offer nuanced ways to convey similar meanings. Ultimately, understanding and articulating why a term is considered "loaded" enhances clarity and strengthens communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A value-laden term

Focuses on the presence of inherent values or biases within the term.

A charged expression

Highlights the emotional intensity associated with the expression.

A politically charged term

Emphasizes the political connotations and potential for controversy.

A controversial phrase

Indicates that the phrase is likely to provoke disagreement or debate.

A sensitive subject

Suggests the topic requires careful and tactful handling.

A contentious issue

Implies strong disagreement and potential conflict surrounding the issue.

A trigger word

Points to a word that can evoke strong emotional reactions, often due to past trauma or negative experiences.

A buzzword

Highlights the term's popularity and frequent use, often in a trendy or superficial way.

A double-edged sword

Highlights the term's capacity to be both beneficial and detrimental depending on context and use.

A slippery slope

Emphasizes the term's potential to lead to unintended and undesirable consequences.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "a loaded term" in a sentence?

To use "a loaded term" effectively, clearly identify the term and explain the connotations that make it loaded. For example, "The term 'socialism' is "a loaded term" in American politics, often evoking strong reactions due to its historical associations."

What are some alternatives to saying "a loaded term"?

You can use alternatives like "value-laden term", "charged expression", or "politically charged term" depending on the specific context and connotation you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to describe a word or phrase as "a loaded term"?

It's appropriate when the word or phrase carries significant emotional, ideological, or historical weight that can influence perception and understanding. Terms like "freedom", "justice", and "democracy" can often be "a loaded term" due to varying interpretations.

What's the difference between "a loaded term" and "a controversial term"?

"A loaded term" implies strong emotional or ideological connotations that can influence perception, while "a controversial term" simply means the term is subject to disagreement or debate. A term can be both "a loaded term" and "a controversial term", but controversy doesn't always stem from inherent emotional weight.