air of privilege

USAGE SUMMARY

'air of privilege' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when something or someone exudes a sense of superiority or entitlement. For example, "The wealthy politicians at the fundraiser had an air of privilege."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Books

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

It backs Mr Bowo, and the national leadership shares Mr Bowo's air of privilege and drift.

The Economist

It's because they are intoxicated by the rarified air of privilege.

The New York Times

And the whole system was upheld by a significant number of legacies, along with a pervasive air of privilege and clubbiness.

The New Yorker

Cars arrive not in a typical driveway entrance but in an underground passageway lined with hand-chiseled stone; it keeps exhaust fumes away and the air of privilege mountain-fresh.

The New York Times

All this would have been an arid affair if Mr Stillman were not so adept at creating characters who convey a certain "fin de siecle" air of privilege and intellectual disaffection.

The Economist

One of his former political mentors, the retired opposition leader Masayoshi Takemura, said Mr. Hatoyama exudes a palpable air of privilege, which may become one of his biggest weak points as a leader.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

At 76, Mr. le Carré is snowy-haired, droll and courtly, speaking in perfect paragraphs and exuding the air of quiet privilege and distinguished manner of a retired statesman.

The New York Times - Books

It wasn't until I read an interview with Jo last year that I realised how much harder it was for a working-class girl from Batley, the first in her family to attend university, to breathe the sometimes toxic air of extreme privilege.

The Guardian - Opinion

Golf clubs have always been surrounded by an air of exclusivity and privilege.

The Guardian - Sport

Even in their best, most-groomed PR shots, the dockless carelessness of these slimline electrified scooters hums with an air of insouciance and privilege.

TechCrunch

Unlike Coachella's air of monied Palm Springs privilege, Desert Daze is known for a more laid-back, down-home vibe.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When critiquing social issues, employ "air of privilege" to highlight disparities and inequalities. This can add depth and complexity to your argument.

Common error

Avoid using the phrase "air of privilege" too frequently, as it can become repetitive and lose its impact. Instead, vary your language with synonyms or alternative descriptions to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "air of privilege" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb or the complement of a preposition. As seen in Ludwig's examples, it describes a quality or characteristic that someone or something exudes.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Books

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "air of privilege" is a noun phrase used to describe a sense of entitlement or superiority, often stemming from wealth or social status. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used, particularly in News & Media. It serves to critique or analyze behaviors and environments exhibiting such entitlement. When using this phrase, avoid overuse and consider alternative descriptions to maintain engagement. Remember that Ludwig AI's examples provide valuable context for understanding its proper application.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Sense of entitlement

Focuses on the feeling of deserving special treatment or advantages.

Aura of exclusivity

Highlights the aspect of being restricted to a select group.

Patrician bearing

Suggests a noble or aristocratic demeanor.

Elitism

Directly refers to the belief in or practice of being governed by an elite group.

Upper-class demeanor

Indicates behavior and attitudes associated with the upper class.

Sense of superiority

Emphasizes the feeling of being better than others.

Advantaged background

Highlights the favorable circumstances one has benefited from.

Silver-spoon upbringing

Refers to being raised in wealth and luxury.

Benefited position

Focuses on the advantages one gains from their current status.

Aristocratic manner

Implies refined and dignified behavior associated with aristocracy.

FAQs

How can I use "air of privilege" in a sentence?

You can use "air of privilege" to describe someone who behaves as though they are entitled to special treatment, as in "The politician's comments betrayed an "air of privilege"".

What are some alternatives to "air of privilege"?

Alternatives to "air of privilege" include "sense of entitlement", "aura of exclusivity", or "patrician bearing", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "atmosphere of privilege" instead of "air of privilege"?

Yes, "atmosphere of privilege" is a valid alternative. It emphasizes the pervasive environment of advantage rather than a personal characteristic. They are similar but not identical in their emphasis, with "atmosphere of privilege" focusing more on the environment than the individual.

What does it mean when someone is described as having an "air of privilege"?

It suggests they exhibit behaviors or attitudes that indicate they come from a background of significant advantage, often implying a lack of awareness or empathy for those less fortunate.