apothegm

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "apothegm" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a concise and instructive saying or maxim that conveys a general truth or principle. Example: "The teacher often quoted the apothegm, 'A stitch in time saves nine,' to emphasize the importance of addressing problems early."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

He was the father of Robert E. Lee and the author of the resolution passed by Congress upon the death of George Washington containing the celebrated apothegm "first in war, first in peace, and first in the hearts of his countrymen".

Encyclopedia Britannica

His most famous apothegm — "What you see is what you see" — is no help, if seeing is supposed to imply comprehending.

The New Yorker

Thompson, like a lot of people in the sixties and seventies, interpreted Dylan's famous apothegm to mean that in order to be honest you must live outside the law.

The New Yorker

In Venice, 1975: After our long day's enchanting rest, yesterday we went down and found Gore — big, complacent, pompous, assured that his every platitude is an apothegm, a witty wisdom.

The New Yorker

He was an apothegm slinger; he was unstoppable.

The New York Times - Books

And Warhol had another arguably brilliant apothegm: "Everything in your closet should have an expiration date on it the way milk and newspapers do".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

Al-Zamakhsharī's other works include three collections of apothegms as well as treatises on moral discourses and a number of poems.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Under Julius Caesar, this yielded in popularity to verse mime of Greek origin that was realistic, often obscene, and full of quotable apothegms.

Encyclopedia Britannica

(Probably wise to avoid "apothegms," unless you want to get taken to the nearest window).

The New Yorker

A Few Small Things We May Have Neglected to Tell You: Life Advice from the Grown-Ups," which Banks compiled from apothegms solicited from friends and family members.

The New Yorker

Taking quickly to Strauss's advice and apothegms, Hoinsky writes in his Reddit roman à clef, "I started having sex with a lot of women — and, finally, some of them were even hot!" The pupil eventually became the teacher: Hoinsky has "dedicated the last few years of my life to mastering the art of seduction," and has now written what he believes will be "the definitive seduction guide of our time".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "apothegm" when you want to add a touch of intellectual flair or historical depth to your writing. This word is more formal than "saying" or "maxim" and suggests a certain level of erudition.

Common error

Avoid using "apothegm" in casual conversation or informal writing, as it can come across as pretentious or overly formal. Opt for simpler alternatives like "saying" or "quote" in such situations.

Linguistic Context

The noun "apothegm" functions as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence. It represents a concise statement of a principle, often conveying wisdom or a general truth. Ludwig shows that it is often used in writing that references philosophical or historical contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Encyclopedias

19%

Science

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "apothegm" is a grammatically sound noun referring to a concise and instructive saying. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English, particularly in formal contexts. While it is less common than simpler alternatives like "saying" or "maxim", "apothegm" adds a touch of sophistication and intellectual depth. To ensure effective use, avoid overuse in informal settings and consider alternative options when appropriate. According to the usage patterns extracted by Ludwig, this word occurs frequently in "News & Media", "Encyclopedias", and "Science" contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Maxim

Focuses on a general truth or rule of conduct expressed in a concise manner.

Aphorism

Similar to apothegm, emphasizing a concise and witty observation.

Proverb

Highlights a traditional saying expressing a common experience or belief.

Saying

A general term for a well-known statement or expression.

Adage

Emphasizes a wise saying containing a truth based on experience.

Epigram

Highlights a witty and concise statement, often with a clever twist.

Dictum

Focuses on an authoritative declaration or pronouncement.

Motto

Indicates a brief statement expressing a principle or ideal.

Precept

Highlights a rule or principle prescribing a particular course of action or conduct.

Truism

Emphasizes a self-evident truth or statement that is obvious.

FAQs

How can I use "apothegm" in a sentence?

An "apothegm" is typically used to introduce or refer to a concise, instructive saying. For example, "His speech was filled with apothegms from ancient philosophers."

What's the difference between an "apothegm" and a proverb?

While both are short, instructive sayings, an "apothegm" is often attributed to a specific author, whereas a proverb is a traditional saying of unknown origin. You can use "proverb" if you don't know the author or if the saying is widely known.

Are there synonyms for "apothegm"?

Yes, synonyms for "apothegm" include "aphorism", "maxim", and "saying", though "apothegm" carries a more formal tone.

Is "apothegm" a commonly used word?

"Apothegm" is not as common as simpler alternatives like "saying", but it is appropriate in formal writing and academic contexts. Its usage can add sophistication to your writing.