a position of privilege

USAGE SUMMARY

'a position of privilege' is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to refer to an advantageous situation or rank which one has relative to others. For example, "Her family's wealth has allowed her to live in a position of privilege."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The first use of it was in 2006, on the social justice site shrub.com, when a blogger calmly wrote about how everyone to a certain extent speaks from a position of privilege and they should take into account that others are not as privileged as them.

The Guardian

I occupy a position of privilege.

The Guardian - Opinion

And of course, Schumer is able to present her body from a position of privilege.

The Guardian - Opinion

She is in a position of privilege, afforded her by her socio-economic class.

The Guardian

As landowners in one of the most desirable parts of Britain, Burrell and Tree are in a position of privilege.

The Guardian - Books

"You are speaking from a position of privilege," Jack said, "so you have no right to criticize us or tell us what to do".

The New Yorker

Because he was creating a permanent record of their culture, Scoditti began to enjoy a position of privilege in Kitawan society.

The New Yorker

As an Australian-born, modern, educated, uncovered Muslim woman, I am acutely aware I come to this issue from a position of privilege, but sadly, also some experience.

The Guardian - Opinion

Working for a traditional archive meant that you were in a position of power and getting access to these collections meant you were in a position of privilege.

Columbia University

"But this, far from putting us in a position of privilege, puts us instead in a position of greater responsibilities and obligations".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

The temptation to abuse a position of professional privilege is an obvious one.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a position of privilege", be specific about the type of privilege you are referring to (e.g., socioeconomic, racial, gender) to avoid ambiguity and ensure clarity.

Common error

Avoid using the phrase "a position of privilege" without acknowledging how that privilege may affect others or perpetuate inequalities. Acknowledging the impact demonstrates awareness and sensitivity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a position of privilege" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a preposition (e.g., "from a position of privilege") or as a subject complement. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

77%

Academia

14%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Science

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a position of privilege" is a frequently used noun phrase referring to an advantageous social standing. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. It commonly appears in news and media, as well as academic contexts. When using the phrase, specificity is key; clarifying the type of privilege enhances understanding and avoids ambiguity. Recognizing the implications of privilege is essential for promoting awareness and social responsibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a place of advantage

Focuses on the advantageous aspect, omitting the social implications of privilege.

an elevated status

Highlights the higher rank or standing one has compared to others.

an advantageous situation

Emphasizes the favorable circumstances someone finds themselves in.

a position of power

Highlights the influence and control associated with the position.

a privileged background

Focuses on the advantages derived from one's upbringing and social environment.

a fortunate circumstance

Emphasizes luck and good fortune as the source of advantage.

an upper hand

Highlights having a competitive edge over others.

a favored position

Highlights the preferential treatment or advantages received.

a commanding role

Emphasizes the authority and influence one holds.

a strategic advantage

Highlights advantages that result in better outcomes when planning or decision making is involved.

FAQs

How can I use "a position of privilege" in a sentence?

You can use "a position of privilege" to describe someone's advantageous standing due to factors like wealth, race, or social status. For instance, "As a CEO, she recognized she held "a position of privilege" and used it to advocate for her employees".

What are some alternatives to "a position of privilege"?

Alternatives include "a place of advantage", "an elevated status", or "an advantageous situation", depending on the specific context you want to convey.

Is it correct to say someone "has" a position of privilege?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. You can say someone "has" or "enjoys" "a position of privilege" to indicate they benefit from certain advantages.

What's the difference between "a position of privilege" and "a position of power"?

"A position of privilege" refers to unearned advantages based on social identity, while "a position of power" refers to the ability to influence or control others. They can overlap, but privilege doesn't always equate to direct power.