aboriginals

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "aboriginals" is correct and usable in written English, though it is often considered less preferred than other terms.
You can use it when referring to the indigenous peoples of Australia, but it is advisable to use more specific terms like "Aboriginal Australians" or "Torres Strait Islanders" when appropriate. Example: "The aboriginals of Australia have a rich cultural heritage that dates back thousands of years."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Today, Aboriginals from remote communities are still drawn here, to visit family, collect welfare or seek medical attention.

The Guardian

Despite the recent troubles in town and the men's subsequent actions, the defence claimed their intention was not to harass Aboriginals, but to check if it was possible to drive to the old Telegraph Station, 6km upriver.

The Guardian

Because Justice Martin decided that none of Kloeden's passengers had encouraged him to drive at the Aboriginals, he alone was found guilty of recklessly endangering life.

The Guardian

The final vote may hinge on whether the EU takes a common position – which depends on consensus – or whether opposition materialises from states such as Denmark, which has traditionally defended the practice among aboriginals in its former colony of Greenland.

The Guardian

"We're kind of mad, us Aboriginals.

The Guardian - Film

Does anyone care about Australia's Aboriginals?

The Guardian

Yet it was not for want of trying: the governor sought to have good relations with the aboriginals.In Mr Keneally's story, Phillip's relationship with a tribal leader named Bennelong is sensitive and sad, even though Bennelong had been one of a party of aboriginals who attacked and wounded him.

The Economist

Lera Boroditsky of Stanford University, for example, points to the Kuuk Thaayorre, aboriginals of northern Australia who have no words for "left" or "right", using instead absolute directions such as "north" and "south-east" (as in "You have an ant on your south-west leg").

The Economist

And many of his subjects, from the Welsh community in Patagonia to the anthropologists working alongside the Aboriginals in central Australia, felt cheapened and used in the process.

The Economist

"Authority and equality were the two trees he planted in Sydney Cove," writes Mr Keneally, who sees Phillip as "a colourless, secular saint [whose] spirit, pragmatic and thorough, is still visible in Australia .Mr Phillip's problem, and the aboriginals' tragedy, was his inability to understand the people who had arrived tens of thousands of years earlier.

The Economist

THE last time Australia produced a sweeping novel about relations between the white majority and indigenous aboriginals in the far north of the country was in 1938, when Xavier Herbert published "Capricornia", a classic of well-intentioned social protest.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Be mindful of the historical context and avoid perpetuating stereotypes or misconceptions about Aboriginal people. Research and accurately represent their cultures, histories, and contemporary issues.

Common error

Avoid using "aboriginals" as a catch-all term. Instead, specify the particular group or community you are referring to, such as the Noongar people or the Arrernte people. Overgeneralization can erase the unique identities and experiences of different Aboriginal groups.

Linguistic Context

The word "aboriginals" functions primarily as a noun, specifically the plural form of 'aboriginal'. It refers to the original inhabitants of a particular region. Ludwig AI suggests that the term is usable but often less preferred than more specific terms. Examples show it being used to refer to the indigenous people of Australia and other regions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Encyclopedias

33%

Science

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Wiki

4%

Social Media

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "aboriginals" is grammatically correct as a plural noun referring to original inhabitants, particularly in Australia. However, Ludwig AI points out it's often more respectful and accurate to use specific terms like "Aboriginal Australians" or "Torres Strait Islanders". The term appears frequently in News & Media and Encyclopedias, indicating a neutral register. When writing, avoid overgeneralizing and strive for cultural sensitivity by researching and accurately representing the cultures of specific Aboriginal groups.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Indigenous Australians

Refers specifically to the native people of Australia, emphasizing their connection to the land.

Native Australians

Focuses on their birth or origin in Australia.

First Nations people

A term often used in Canada, but can be applied to any indigenous group recognizing their historical precedence.

Original inhabitants

Highlights their status as the earliest known settlers of a region.

First peoples

Similar to 'First Nations', emphasizing their initial presence.

Indigenous population

A broader term encompassing any native group in a specific region.

Native people

A general term for people originating from a particular place.

Native communities

Highlights the community aspect of indigenous groups.

Tribal people

Focuses on the tribal structure and culture of indigenous groups.

Autochthonous population

A more formal and scientific term indicating native origin.

FAQs

Is it appropriate to use the term "aboriginals"?

While "aboriginals" is technically correct as a plural form, it is generally considered less respectful than using specific terms like "Aboriginal Australians" or "Torres Strait Islanders" when referring to the indigenous peoples of Australia. Using specific terms demonstrates greater cultural sensitivity.

What are some alternative terms for "aboriginals"?

Alternatives include "Indigenous Australians", "First Nations people", or "Native Australians". The best choice depends on the context and the specific group being discussed. Always prioritize respectful and accurate language.

How can I use "aboriginals" in a sentence?

You might say, "The history of the "aboriginals" of Australia is rich and complex." However, it's often better to be more specific: "The history of Aboriginal Australians is rich and complex."

What is the historical context of the term "aboriginals"?

The term "aboriginals" has been used historically, but its usage can be associated with colonial perspectives. Today, many prefer terms that emphasize self-determination and cultural identity, such as "Indigenous Australians".