a nation of bread

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a nation of bread" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing cultural or societal aspects related to bread, such as its significance in a particular nation or community. Example: "In many ways, we are a nation of bread, where every meal is incomplete without this staple food."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Egypt is a nation of bread eaters.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Greeks are not a nation of breakfast eaters, so koulouri, a plain, circular bread topped with sesame seeds, tends to be the morning fare for most people.

The Guardian - Travel

For a nation of nearly 17 million people, that's close to 300 million slices a year of hagelslag-covered bread.

The New York Times - Magazine

But a nation of wusses?

The New York Times

A nation of detectives we are not.

Independent

A nation of strike-happy unionists?

The Economist

Britain is a nation of hoarders.

Independent

We are a nation of action.

The New York Times

It is a "nation of buccaneering entrepreneurs".

The Economist

We have become a nation of nomads.

Independent

We're a nation of retailers.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly establishes the connection between the nation and bread, highlighting why bread is so central to their identity or sustenance.

Common error

Avoid using "a nation of bread" if bread isn't genuinely a staple or culturally significant. This phrase should reflect a real, substantial connection, not a casual observation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a nation of bread" functions as a metaphorical descriptor, attributing a defining characteristic (reliance on or cultural significance of bread) to a nation. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for use in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a nation of bread" is a metaphor used to describe a country or society where bread holds significant cultural or dietary importance. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct, although its usage is relatively rare. Primarily found in news and media contexts, the phrase emphasizes the deep connection between a nation and its reliance on bread. When using this expression, it's important to ensure that it accurately reflects the cultural or dietary reality of the nation being described, avoiding overgeneralizations. Alternatives such as "a country where bread is a staple food" can provide similar meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A people for whom bread is a basic food

Stresses the fundamental role of bread for a specific population.

A country where bread is a staple food

Focuses on the dietary importance of bread in a country.

A land sustained by bread

Emphasizes bread's role in sustaining a population.

A society where bread is central to the diet

Emphasizes the centrality of bread in the dietary habits of a society.

A group that considers bread an essential food

Stresses the essential nature of bread for a specific group.

A culture heavily reliant on bread

Highlights the cultural dependency on bread.

A population whose identity is tied to bread

Highlights how bread is connected to the people's identity.

A place where bread is deeply ingrained in traditions

Focuses on the traditional importance of bread in a specific location.

A region where bread is a culinary cornerstone

Highlights bread's role as a fundamental element of the region's cuisine.

A community defined by its bread consumption

Highlights how bread consumption shapes a community's identity.

FAQs

How can I use "a nation of bread" in a sentence?

You can use "a nation of bread" to describe a country where bread is a staple food and culturally significant. For instance, "Egypt is "a nation of bread", with a long history of wheat consumption".

What does it mean to call a country "a nation of bread"?

Calling a country "a nation of bread" means that bread is not only a staple food but also deeply intertwined with the country's culture, traditions, and daily life. It suggests a fundamental reliance on bread for sustenance and identity.

Are there other phrases similar to "a nation of bread" that I can use?

Yes, you can use phrases like "a bread-reliant society", "a culture defined by bread", or "a country where bread is a staple food" to convey a similar meaning.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use the phrase "a nation of bread"?

It's appropriate in contexts discussing food history, cultural traditions related to food, and the dietary habits of a population. Ensure that your usage accurately reflects the importance of bread in that specific context.