according to folklore

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "according to folklore" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referencing traditional beliefs, stories, or cultural narratives that are passed down through generations. Example: "According to folklore, the forest is said to be inhabited by spirits that protect the land."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

According to folklore, the medicine man learns his skills, but witches are born with their powers.

The Economist

According to folklore he prepared for his long jump record in 1893 by smoking a cigar.

The Guardian - Sport

In short, the ibis is a leader, a bird that, according to folklore, other birds follow.

The New York Times - Sports

According to folklore, if the groundhog sees his shadow, then winter will endure for six more weeks.

Independent

ONCE upon a time, according to folklore, a squirrel could travel through America's chestnut forests from Maine to Florida without ever touching the ground.

The Economist

According to folklore, it is here (or somewhere very like it) that Sir Ewen Cameron of Lochiel shot the last wild-living wolf in Great Britain in 1680.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

According to popular folklore, very.

The New Yorker

According to traditional folklore, the medicine man learns his skills.

The Economist

According to interview folklore, however, they are unco-operative.

The Guardian - Music

According to local folklore, spring comes when fire warms the earth.

The Guardian - Arts

According to food folklore, Nellie loved ice-cream but dared not eat it, believing it would damage her vocal cords.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "according to folklore" to introduce beliefs or stories that are part of a cultural tradition. It adds a layer of cultural context to your writing.

Common error

Avoid presenting unsubstantiated rumors or personal opinions as "according to folklore". Folklore refers to established traditional beliefs and stories within a culture.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "according to folklore" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase that introduces information attributed to traditional beliefs and cultural narratives. As Ludwig AI points out, it serves to contextualize information within a specific cultural framework.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "according to folklore" is a grammatically sound and commonly used way to introduce information rooted in traditional beliefs and cultural narratives. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and applicable. It finds its place in various contexts, primarily in news, media, and wiki articles. When using this phrase, ensure that you are referencing legitimate folklore and not misattributing personal opinions as traditional knowledge. Alternatives include "as folklore has it" or "legend says", depending on the specific context. The usage of this term enhances the richness and cultural depth of writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as folklore has it

Replaces "according to" with "as", offering a slightly more informal tone.

folklore suggests

Replaces the prepositional phrase with a direct attribution to folklore.

in folklore

Shortens the phrase, placing the focus on the domain of folklore.

legend says

Specifies legend as the source of the information.

traditionally

Implies the information comes from tradition without explicitly mentioning folklore.

popular belief holds that

Highlights the widespread acceptance of the belief.

in traditional narratives

Emphasizes the narrative aspect of folklore.

it is said that

A more general way to introduce traditional or unverified information.

cultural narratives suggest

Highlights the cultural context of the beliefs.

the tale tells of

Introduces a specific story or tale from folklore.

FAQs

How can I use "according to folklore" in a sentence?

You can use "according to folklore" to introduce a traditional belief or story. For example, "According to folklore, the forest is inhabited by magical creatures."

What phrases are similar to "according to folklore"?

Similar phrases include "as folklore has it", "folklore suggests", or "legend says".

Is it appropriate to use "according to folklore" in formal writing?

Yes, "according to folklore" can be used in formal writing when referencing traditional beliefs or stories. However, ensure the context is appropriate and the source is relevant.

What is the difference between "according to folklore" and "according to legend"?

"According to folklore" refers to broader cultural traditions and beliefs, while "according to legend" typically refers to specific, often exaggerated, stories about a person or event. Although similar, they indicate slightly different sources.