a true icon

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a true icon" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that is widely recognized and admired, often representing a particular quality or characteristic. Example: "Elvis Presley is considered a true icon of rock and roll music."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

He's a true icon and a legend.

Independent

Mr. Clemens, Mr. Shays said, was "a true icon in baseball".

The New York Times - Sports

U.S. Rep. John Salazar, D-Colo., called Fetcher "a true icon of Colorado" in a speech Tuesday in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Harvard University

Cardiff added in the statement on Lomu, who scored 37 tries in 63 international Test matches and is regarded as one of the All Blacks' greatest ever players: "Jonah was a true icon and legend of our game.

The Guardian - Sport

The V&A is hoping that international interest in the show, which runs until August, will take off, according to director Martin Roth, who called Bowie "a true icon".

The Guardian - Music

For all that Miley Cyrus's cropped hair and crotch-clutching and "I don't relate to being boy or girl" have inspired articles about gender fluidity as the new "in" thing, it's hard not to see Cyrus's "trailblazing" as derivative of David Bowie – a true icon in so many ways, not least in his defiant smashing of gender norms.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

The 2016 Mercury Prize winner described the former Oasis singer as "a true, true icon", while fellow rapper Stormzy shouted out Liam as "my G!". Skepta said: "He's taken his iconic place and no-one will take it until he passes away". Liam then sent the love back Skepta's way, saying: "I wanna thank him for keeping it interesting". We bet they had an interesting evening afterwards.

BBC

Most of All-Star Tuesday was devoted to remembering the life of a true New York icon.

The New York Times

I admire her personally and professionally, she represents a true fashion icon.

Independent

Whitney Donhauser, the director of the museum calls Robinson "a true American icon".

The Guardian - Arts

"Richard was a true N.Y.C. icon," said the financier Ronald O. Perelman, a frequent Page Six subject, in an e-mail message.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a true icon", ensure the subject genuinely embodies widely recognized and admired qualities relevant to their field or cultural impact.

Common error

Avoid labeling every popular figure as "a true icon". Reserve this phrase for individuals or entities with a lasting and significant impact to prevent dilution of its meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a true icon" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject complement or appositive to describe a person, object, or concept that is widely recognized and admired. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Encyclopedias

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a true icon" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed expression used to describe individuals or entities widely celebrated for their enduring impact and significance. As indicated by Ludwig, its primary contexts lie within news and media and academic discussions. While versatile, overuse should be avoided to preserve its impact. Alternatives such as "a genuine symbol" and "a veritable legend" can offer nuanced expressions of similar admiration. Ultimately, the accurate and purposeful application of "a true icon" enhances the clarity and impact of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a genuine symbol

Replaces "icon" with "symbol" and "true" with "genuine", emphasizing authenticity.

a veritable legend

Substitutes "icon" with "legend" and "true" with "veritable", highlighting legendary status.

an authentic figure

Replaces "icon" with "figure" and "true" with "authentic", stressing genuineness and importance.

a definitive exemplar

Substitutes "icon" with "exemplar" and "true" with "definitive", focusing on being a perfect example.

a classic representation

Replaces "icon" with "representation" and "true" with "classic", emphasizing timelessness.

a symbolic embodiment

Replaces "true icon" with "symbolic embodiment" focusing on the representative nature.

a quintessential model

Substitutes "icon" with "model" and "true" with "quintessential", highlighting its perfect typicality.

an archetypal figure

Replaces "icon" with "figure" and "true" with "archetypal", emphasizing a fundamental and representative type.

a lasting symbol

Replaces "icon" with "symbol" and "true" with "lasting", stressing enduring significance.

a respected emblem

Substitutes "icon" with "emblem" and "true" with "respected", focusing on the object of respect that is shown.

FAQs

How can I use "a true icon" in a sentence?

Use "a true icon" to describe someone or something widely recognized and admired. For example, "David Bowie is considered "a true icon" for his contributions to music and fashion".

What are some alternatives to saying "a true icon"?

You can use alternatives like "a genuine symbol", "a veritable legend", or "an authentic figure" to express a similar meaning.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a true icon"?

It's appropriate to use "a true icon" when referring to someone or something that has had a significant and lasting impact, and is widely recognized and respected for their contributions or qualities.

What distinguishes "a true icon" from just being famous or popular?

While fame and popularity can be fleeting, "a true icon" possesses enduring influence and respect, shaping culture or a specific field over a sustained period. The phrase implies recognition that goes beyond simple notability.