a status symbol

USAGE SUMMARY

"a status symbol" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to a physical object that people strive to have or obtain in order to show their wealth or success. For example, "The company CEO showed off her new designer handbag, which was clearly a status symbol."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's a status symbol".

The New York Times

They come here as a status symbol.

The New Yorker

Cars are a status symbol.

The Guardian

It's very much a status symbol there".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The Italians considered maiolica a status symbol.

The New York Times - Arts

It was also a status symbol.

The New York Times - Arts

But in Jamaica they're a status symbol.

Independent

In other words, being busy is a status symbol.

Harvard Business Review

"It was a status symbol," Ms. O'Malley explained.

The New York Times

The badge had become something of a status symbol.

The New York Times - Tech

"They're also a bit of a status symbol.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a status symbol", consider the specific social context to ensure the item genuinely represents status within that group. Overuse can sound cliché; opt for more specific language when possible to enhance the message's impact.

Common error

Avoid assuming an item is "a status symbol" across all cultures. What signifies status in one culture may have little or no value in another. Always consider the specific cultural lens.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a status symbol" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It identifies an object or concept that is valued for its ability to signify social standing and wealth. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in numerous examples from various sources.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Formal & Business

8%

Academia

5%

Less common in

Science

1%

Wiki

0.5%

Reference

0.5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a status symbol" serves as a noun phrase that identifies items signifying social standing or wealth, as supported by Ludwig's extensive collection of examples. While applicable in formal contexts, it maintains a largely neutral register and appears frequently in news and media. Remember to use this phrase thoughtfully, considering cultural and social contexts to ensure relevance and avoid clichés. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is used to categorize a physical object that people desire to show their wealth or success.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a status marker

A more clinical and sociological term for something that indicates social position.

a sign of affluence

Directly points to material prosperity and riches.

a symbol of success

Highlights the achievement aspect, linking the item to accomplished goals.

an emblem of wealth

Specifically emphasizes the wealth component, suggesting affluence.

a mark of prestige

Focuses more on the prestige aspect rather than necessarily indicating material wealth.

a trophy asset

Suggests the item is collected and displayed to show off one's success.

a badge of honor

Implies respect and recognition earned through some achievement or association.

a luxury item

Focuses on the expensiveness and non-essential nature of the object.

a Veblen good

An economic term for goods where demand increases as the price increases, due to its signal of exclusivity.

a positional good

An item whose value is derived from its limited supply and social comparison.

FAQs

How can I use "a status symbol" in a sentence?

You can use "a status symbol" to describe an item or activity that signifies wealth or high social standing. For example, "For many, owning a luxury car is "a status symbol"."

What are some synonyms for "a status symbol"?

Alternatives to "a status symbol" include "a sign of affluence", "a mark of prestige", or "a symbol of success", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "a status symbol" in formal writing?

Yes, "a status symbol" is appropriate for formal writing, but consider if a more precise term might be more effective depending on your audience and the nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "a status symbol" and "a luxury item"?

While often related, "a status symbol" specifically implies that the item signifies social standing, whereas "a luxury item" simply means it's an expensive, non-essential good. Something can be a luxury without being a status symbol, and vice versa.