a lore

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a lore" is not commonly used in written English and may sound awkward.
It can be used when referring to a specific type of lore or a singular instance of lore, but it is more typical to use "lore" as an uncountable noun. Example: "The ancient civilization had a rich lore that was passed down through generations."

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

"Sarn" can be translated from the Welsh as "causeway" - a hint at a lore that speaks of ancient sunken lands.

The Guardian

Jews were also possessors of an ancient text, a secret language, a lore kept hidden and unavailable; they welcomed no converts, teaching their ancient language reluctantly.

The New Yorker

To be a truly successful jam band is to generate a lore and a playbook, and Umphrey's McGee has that ground well covered.

The New York Times - Arts

But the latest chapter in their series was a step into the past, recalling a lore of Knute Rockne's "Win One for the Gipper" speech in 1928 and the teams' scoreless tie in 1946 in the so-called game of the century.

The New York Times - Sports

The first article is a lore piece on Deathwing, the big red dragon whom we'll be trying to slay in Cataclysm.

TechCrunch

It's all a lore more menacing and unsettling than a game about dating birds has any right to be.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

They'd yearned to see the sweet and accursed old teams have at each other in their grand old parks—a lore-off, so to speak.

The New Yorker

They'd yearned to see the sweet and accursed old teams have at each other in their grand old parks — a lore-off, so to speak.

The New Yorker

In a postscript, Lore asks, "Whatever did you make of the ABC Sebald?

The New Yorker

A craft lore existed, of pen nibs, fine brushes, blue pencils, art-gum erasers, whiteout, and Higgins India ink.

The New Yorker

The fermentation is carried out at room temperature ranging from 26 29 °C, for 1 2 days in a gourd (Lore et al., 2005).

International Journal of Food Contamination

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a lore", consider whether "lore" alone would be more appropriate, as it often functions as an uncountable noun. For instance, instead of "the game has a lore", you might write "the game has rich lore".

Common error

Avoid using "a lore" when referring to lore in general. The indefinite article implies a single, distinct body of knowledge, which may not always be the intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a lore" primarily functions as a noun phrase, where "a" is an indefinite article specifying a particular instance or collection of traditional knowledge or beliefs. Ludwig AI also points out that "lore" alone is often preferred.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while grammatically acceptable, the phrase "a lore" is less common than using "lore" as an uncountable noun. Ludwig AI suggests that it is most appropriate when introducing or emphasizing a specific, distinct body of knowledge. The phrase appears in a range of contexts, but is more frequently found in News & Media, Science, and Wiki sources. When using "a lore", consider if "lore" alone would suffice for better clarity and flow. Alternatives like "a legend", "a myth", or "a tradition" may also provide more precise meaning depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a legend

Highlights a story or narrative, often exaggerated or mythical, within a body of lore.

a myth

Emphasizes the fictional or symbolic nature of a story within a lore.

a tradition

Focuses on established customs and beliefs passed down through generations, similar to lore but emphasizing practice.

a tale

Refers to a specific story, often part of a larger lore.

a knowledge

Highlights the aspect of accumulated information and understanding.

a folk

Focuses on the traditional beliefs and customs of a particular community.

a story

Underscores the narrative aspect of lore, focusing on a specific account or event.

a superstition

Implies a belief based on fear or ignorance, often part of a cultural lore.

a legacy

Emphasizes what is handed down or inherited from the past.

a caption

Highlights the part of explanation accompanying an illustration or photograph.

FAQs

How can I use "a lore" in a sentence?

Use "a lore" when referring to a specific instance or body of knowledge within a broader system. For example, "Each character in the game has "a lore" explaining their background and abilities."

What's a more common way to express the idea of "a lore"?

Instead of "a lore", consider using "lore" as an uncountable noun. For example, instead of "the region has "a lore" of its own", try "the region has its own unique lore".

Which is correct, "a lore" or "the lore"?

"The lore" refers to a specific, previously mentioned or well-known body of knowledge. "A lore" is appropriate when introducing a new, distinct body of knowledge.

Is "a lore" grammatically incorrect?

While not strictly incorrect, ""a lore"" is less common than using "lore" without the article. It's best used when emphasizing a specific, self-contained set of traditions or knowledge.