aborigine

USAGE SUMMARY

'aborigine' is a correct and usable word in written English.
You can use it to refer to the original inhabitants of a particular region or country, especially Australia. For example: "The aborigines of Australia have a rich cultural heritage."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Evidence of this ethnic and linguistic pride can be seen in the preference of many indigenous Australians for the use of such self-designations as Koori (also spelled Koorie, meaning "person") rather than the terms Aborigine and Aboriginal, which were imposed upon them (see Researcher's Note: Aborigines and self-designation).

Encyclopedia Britannica

Guided by a Charon-like aborigine called Phar Lap Dixon, she arrives in Dulston, "a hidden pleat in the city's rolled up sleeve...a vent in the back of its jacket", the place where the dead live.

The Economist

Its Advanced Management course, which seeks to teach business "from an aborigine perspective", recently graduated its third class.

The Economist

Round the world he went, to Nigeria, Australia, the Arctic, India, taking thousands of blood samples, hoping something would show up.What showed up one day in 1964, quite unexpectedly, as he was studying yellow jaundice, was a mysterious protein in the blood of an Australian aborigine.

The Economist

Mr de Heer's new film, described by some as a western in the outback, is set in 1922 and features a three-man mounted posse hunting for an Aborigine, alleged to be a murderer.

The Economist

Life expectancy for an aborigine is 21 years less than for a white Australian man.All this has opened up a tough mood in Canberra.

The Economist

He runs a policy institute in Cape York, his home region, and has the ear, more than any aborigine in Australia, of the reform-minded conservative coalition government led by John Howard.

The Economist

In 1963 he discovered in the blood serum of an Australian Aborigine an antigen that he later (1967) determined to be part of a virus that causes hepatitis B, the most-severe form of hepatitis.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Truganini (d. 1876), a Tasmanian woman who aided the resettlement on Flinders Island, was the last full-blooded Aborigine in Tasmania.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Ken Wyatt, in full Kenneth George Wyatt (born Aug. 4, 1952, near Bunbury, W.Aus). Australian educator and Liberal Party politician who was the first Aborigine elected (2010) to the national House of Representatives.

Encyclopedia Britannica

February 16, 1973 Mackay, Australia Cathy Freeman, byname of Catherine Astrid Salome Freeman (born February 16, 1973, Mackay, Queensland, Australia) Australian sprinter who excelled in the 400-metre dash and who in 2000 became the first Australian Aborigine to win an individual Olympic gold medal.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about indigenous people, consider using the more specific term "indigenous Australian" instead of the general term "aborigine" to show respect and acknowledge their unique cultural identity.

Common error

Be careful not to overgeneralize when using the term "aborigine". Recognize that indigenous populations are diverse, and experiences vary greatly among different groups and communities.

Linguistic Context

The word "aborigine" primarily functions as a noun, referring to a member of an indigenous population, particularly in Australia. As Ludwig AI confirms, this term is used to describe the original inhabitants of a region.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

35%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "aborigine" is a noun used to refer to the original inhabitants of a region, most commonly Australia. While grammatically correct, as Ludwig AI points out, contemporary usage often favors more specific and respectful terms like "indigenous Australian". The frequency of "aborigine" is very common, appearing in various contexts such as news, encyclopedias, and scientific publications. However, writers should be mindful of potential sensitivities and opt for more precise terminology when appropriate. Remember to avoid generalizations and acknowledge the diversity within indigenous populations. Understanding these nuances ensures respectful and accurate communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

indigenous person

Replaces "aborigine" with a more general and universally applicable term for native inhabitants.

native inhabitant

Offers a broader term for original residents of a region, applicable beyond Australia.

original inhabitant

Emphasizes the temporal aspect of being the first residents.

native Australian

Specifically refers to the indigenous people of Australia, similar to "aborigine" but more descriptive.

indigenous Australian

A more formal and respectful way to refer to Australian aborigines.

first peoples

Highlights the historical priority of indigenous populations.

autochthonous population

A scientific term indicating that a population is native to a place.

tribal people

Focuses on the community structure of indigenous groups.

native population

A simple and direct way to refer to the original inhabitants of an area.

first nations people

Commonly used to refer to indigenous people in certain countries, emphasizing their historical presence and sovereignty.

FAQs

What is the definition of "aborigine"?

The term "aborigine" refers to an original inhabitant of a country, often used specifically in the context of indigenous Australians.

Is it appropriate to use the term "aborigine"?

While "aborigine" is a recognized term, using more specific terms like "indigenous Australian" or "First Nations people" is often preferred as it acknowledges specific cultural identities and can be more respectful. You can also use alternatives like "indigenous person" or "native inhabitant".

What are some synonyms for "aborigine"?

Synonyms for "aborigine" include "native Australian", "indigenous Australian", "indigenous person", and "original inhabitant". The best choice depends on the specific context.

How should I use "aborigine" in a sentence?

When using "aborigine", ensure the context is clear and respectful. For example: "The art of the Australian aborigines is rich in symbolism." However, consider using more specific and respectful terms like "indigenous Australians" instead. For example: "The art of the indigenous Australians is rich in symbolism."