an appropriation of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an appropriation of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the act of taking something for one's own use, typically without the owner's permission, often in the context of art, culture, or ideas. Example: "The artist's latest work is an appropriation of traditional motifs, reinterpreted in a modern context."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

She went on, "It's an appropriation of intellectual property.

The New Yorker

The Dies Comm. received an appropriation of $25,000.

The New Yorker

That would have been presumptuous, an appropriation of others' sufferings.

The Guardian

He vetoed an appropriation of $10 million to pay for weekly recycling earlier this year.

The New York Times

This range rather looks like an appropriation of existing traditions without giving them any real recognition.

The Guardian - Opinion

Congress is expected to approve an appropriation of up to $200 million for the first three years of the deal.

The New York Times

Her work is an appropriation of the famous Duchamp painting in which Mona wears an upturned mustache.

The New York Times

Mr. Ford said he would ask Congress tomorrow for an appropriation of $135 million to produce the vaccine.

The New York Times

L. 95 88 struck out provisions authorizing an appropriation of $99,550,000 for fiscal year 1976 and inserted provisions authorizing an appropriation of $105,000,000 for fiscal year 1978.

Cornell University

Is not an appropriation of the donkey-zebras of Tijuana, but a remake of the same emblem of the city.

Princeton University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

A label notes that Duchamp appropriated his own earlier work, which was itself an appropriation of Leonardo's painting.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing cultural elements, ensure you're not using "an appropriation of" in a way that diminishes or disrespects the original culture. Always consider the ethical implications.

Common error

Avoid using "an appropriation of" loosely to describe any form of influence or inspiration. The term carries a specific weight, implying a potentially problematic taking or use of something. Choose a more neutral term like "influenced by" or "inspired by" when appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an appropriation of" functions as a noun phrase, acting as the subject, object, or complement in a sentence. Ludwig shows that it describes the action or result of taking something for one's own use, often without permission or proper acknowledgment.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Academia

22%

Science

11%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an appropriation of" is a common prepositional phrase used to describe the act of taking something for one's own use, often in a cultural or artistic context. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used. However, it's important to be aware of the ethical implications and potential negative connotations associated with the term, particularly when discussing cultural elements. Consider using alternatives like "a borrowing of" or "influenced by" when appropriate to avoid unintended offense.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a borrowing of

Focuses on the act of taking something temporarily or with permission, suggesting a less permanent or forceful taking.

an adoption of

Emphasizes the acceptance and integration of something new, often ideas or methods, into one's own practices.

a utilization of

Highlights the use of something for a specific purpose, often implying efficiency and resourcefulness.

a derivation from

Suggests that something originates or is developed from another source, emphasizing the lineage or inspiration.

a replication of

Focuses on the act of creating a copy or duplicate, often for artistic or scientific purposes.

an imitation of

Implies copying someone's behavior or actions, often with the intention of emulating or mocking them.

a seizure of

Suggests a forceful or illegal taking of something, often in a political or military context.

a preemption of

Highlights taking action before someone else, preventing them from doing something first.

an exploitation of

Emphasizes using something for one's own advantage, often in a way that is considered unfair or unethical.

a commandeering of

Implies taking control of something, especially for military or public use, often temporarily.

FAQs

How is "an appropriation of" used in art criticism?

In art criticism, "an appropriation of" often refers to an artist's use of pre-existing images or cultural symbols in their work. This can be a form of commentary, homage, or critique, but it also raises questions about originality, ownership, and cultural sensitivity. Understanding the artist's intent and the context of the "cultural elements" being appropriated is crucial.

What's the difference between "an appropriation of" and "cultural exchange"?

"An appropriation of" often implies a power imbalance where elements from a minority culture are taken by a dominant culture without understanding or respect. "Cultural exchange", on the other hand, suggests a more reciprocal and equitable sharing of ideas and traditions with mutual understanding and respect.

When is the term "an appropriation of" considered offensive?

The term "an appropriation of" can be offensive when it's used to excuse or downplay the act of taking elements from a marginalized culture without proper acknowledgment, respect, or permission. It's important to consider the potential harm and "historical context" when discussing cultural appropriation.

What are some alternatives to "an appropriation of" that don't carry negative connotations?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "a borrowing of", "an adoption of", "influenced by", or "inspired by". These terms suggest influence or use without the potentially negative implications of "appropriation".