arbiter of taste

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "arbiter of taste" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to someone who has the authority to judge or determine what is considered stylish or of good quality in art, fashion, or culture. Example: "As a renowned critic, she has established herself as the arbiter of taste in contemporary art."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The arbiter of taste is Hill, who works from an office adjacent to Weil and Keiser's.

The New York Times - Sports

Since when has Broadway been an even semi-reliable arbiter of taste?

Independent

Coates is not the final arbiter of taste in the black community," she added.

The New York Times - Arts

I'M not a gatekeeper, an early adopter, much less an arbiter of taste.

The New York Times - Books

"It is supposed to be an independent arbiter of taste and art-historical value.

The New York Times - Arts

But it was England that acted as arbiter of taste for the new movements in social dance.

Britannica

It is quite another to be an arbiter of taste and style in the manner of Anna Wintour.

The New York Times - Magazine

Kellgren, an academic poet and arbiter of taste, ruled that Swedish literature should be modeled on Classicist French patterns.

Britannica

"We need it," said Letitia Baldrige, White House social secretary to Jacqueline Kennedy and longtime arbiter of taste in Washington.

The New York Times

Whether Ms. Stewart will remain an arbiter of taste for people drawn to her vaguely patrician style is unknown.

The New York Times

Her image, built on domestic ideals, rankles with many, while others view her as an arbiter of taste.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "arbiter of taste" when you want to emphasize someone's authoritative role in defining what is considered stylish or culturally relevant. For example, describe Diana Vreeland as a fashion editor who was an "arbiter of taste".

Common error

While "arbiter of taste" is a valid phrase, it can sound pretentious in casual conversation. Opt for simpler terms like "trendsetter" or "influencer" when communicating informally.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "arbiter of taste" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or appositive. It identifies or describes a person or entity that has significant influence over what is considered stylish or aesthetically pleasing. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is widely recognized and accepted.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

73%

Encyclopedias

13%

Academia

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

1%

Science

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "arbiter of taste" is a well-established and frequently used term to describe someone who has significant influence over what is considered stylish or aesthetically pleasing. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and appropriate for use in various contexts, particularly in news media, encyclopedias, and academic discussions. While alternatives like "taste maker" or "trendsetter" exist, "arbiter of taste" carries a sense of authority and prestige. Therefore, it's best used when highlighting someone's defining role in shaping aesthetic preferences.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

taste maker

A simpler, more modern alternative to "arbiter of taste".

judge of taste

Replaces "arbiter" with "judge", focusing on the act of evaluating taste.

master of taste

Replaces "arbiter" with "master", suggesting a high level of skill and authority.

authority on aesthetics

Uses more formal language to describe someone with expertise in matters of beauty and style.

trendsetter

Focuses on the ability to start new trends and influence popular taste.

style icon

Implies a person who is admired and emulated for their fashion sense.

cultural influencer

Broadens the scope to someone who affects broader cultural trends beyond just taste.

influencer of style

Highlights the impact on the choices and preferences of others.

leading voice in style

Highlights the influence a person has in the fashion and style world.

connoisseur

Implies an expert with refined taste and knowledge.

FAQs

What does "arbiter of taste" mean?

The phrase "arbiter of taste" refers to someone who has significant influence over what is considered stylish, fashionable, or culturally acceptable within a particular sphere. They are seen as an authority on aesthetics.

How can I use "arbiter of taste" in a sentence?

You might say, "As the editor of a major fashion magazine, she was considered an "arbiter of taste", shaping trends for the entire industry."

What are some alternatives to "arbiter of taste"?

You can use alternatives like "taste maker", "trendsetter", or "cultural influencer" depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to call myself an "arbiter of taste"?

While technically correct if you have significant influence on taste, calling yourself an "arbiter of taste" might sound arrogant. It's better to let others recognize you as such.