badge

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "badge" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a distinctive emblem, symbol, or device, typically containing a name, motto, or other inscription, that signifies membership of or allegiance to an organization. For example, "He proudly wore the badge of the local police department on his uniform."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Opinion

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The latest case follows the Polish champions' fans displaying a large image of a pig imposed on a Uefa badge and the slogan "Because Football Doesn't Matter, Money Does".

The Guardian - Sport

Like many managers in non research-intensive universities, Talboys is frustrated by the City's fear of backing institutions without a Russell Group badge.

The Guardian

We found relatively few non-graduates on this list interestingly in a world in which not going to university, or not completing your degree (think Zuckerberg) is almost a badge of honour.

The Guardian

When he gave a speech at the Pits and Perverts benefit, his exact words were: "You have worn our badge, Coal Not Dole, and you know what harassment means, as we do.

The Guardian - Film

Now we will pin your badge on us, we will support you.

The Guardian - Film

Heritage saves some of his greatest ire for the notion of using a badge.

The Guardian - Opinion

Yet that said, football has its fair share of ground-baggers, badge hunters and nutcases, cricket does not have a monopoly on the summer sporting eccentric.

The Guardian - Sport

For Melancholy in his eyes is the badge of genius - to aspire to know and create is to slump into despair.

The Guardian

In a blueprint disclosed last week, former Hong Kong governor Chris Patten proposed a new badge, a new oath and big staff cuts.

The Guardian

Their tweet arrived two days before the city derby against Torino, whose badge bears the image of a bull.

The Guardian - Sport

Those who have acquired some knowledge of astronomy can receive a badge confirming that their hotels are "Dark Sky Friendly".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "badge" to refer to a physical object or symbolic representation. Avoid using it metaphorically when a more precise term is available.

Common error

Don't assume that possessing a "badge" automatically equates to competence or ethical behavior. The symbol does not guarantee the qualities it represents.

Linguistic Context

The word "badge" primarily functions as a noun, identifying a distinctive mark, emblem, or token. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriate use in various contexts, referring to both physical objects and symbolic representations. Examples include "Uefa badge", "Coal Not Dole badge", and "Dark Sky Friendly badge".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Sport

15%

Opinion

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Science

6%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "badge" is a commonly used noun referring to a distinctive emblem, symbol, or device. Ludwig AI confirms that it's grammatically sound and versatile, appearing frequently in News & Media, Sport, and Opinion contexts. When using "badge", consider its specific meaning in context—whether it represents authority, membership, or achievement. Be mindful not to overestimate the symbolic value of a "badge", as possession does not guarantee the qualities it signifies.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

insignia of membership

Specifies the badge's function to denote belonging to a particular group.

emblem of identification

Emphasizes the role of the badge as a symbol used for identification.

label of distinction

Highlights the badge as a way to set someone or something apart.

mark of recognition

Focuses on the badge as a means of acknowledging achievement or status.

symbol of authority

Highlights the badge's representation of official power or authorization.

token of achievement

Suggests the badge is awarded for accomplishments or merit.

attribute of status

Implies the badge is an indicator of social standing or rank.

credential

Indicates the badge serves as proof of qualification or authorization.

ID card

Refers to a card used for personal identification.

name tag

Describes a simple tag displaying a person's name.

FAQs

How is a "badge" different from an emblem?

While both a "badge" and an emblem serve as symbols, a "badge" often signifies membership or authority, while an emblem represents a broader concept or organization. An emblem is a symbolic figure that represents something; a "badge" is a distinctive device or mark, often worn as an insignia.

What are some other words for "badge"?

Alternatives to "badge" include "emblem", "insignia", "mark", "token", and "symbol", depending on the specific context.

Can "badge" be used as a verb?

Yes, "badge" can be used as a verb, meaning to mark or distinguish with a badge. For example, "The television was badged as 'GE', but wasn't made by them."

Is it correct to say "badge of honor"?

Yes, "badge of honor" is a common idiom. It signifies something that is typically seen as negative but is viewed with pride in a particular context. For instance, "Young people think it is a badge of honour to be sent to hospital in an ambulance."