beacon of tolerance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'beacon of tolerance' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone or something that is seen as a model of open-mindedness and acceptance. For example, "She was a beacon of tolerance and acceptance, teaching all of her students the importance of respecting different cultures and beliefs."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

Last month, Theresa May gave a speech where she described Israel as "a beacon of tolerance".

The Guardian

India's intelligentsia and the world have lost a beacon of tolerance, quiet hope, compassion and generosity, a voice of conscience.

The Guardian

Instead of being a beacon of tolerance, her school became a "ghetto" in the words of one supporter.

The Economist

The prime minister is regarded as one of the most pro-Israeli leaders in Europe, recently describing it as "a remarkable country" and "a beacon of tolerance".

The Guardian

Humiliated at Dien Bien Phu, and trapped in a vicious counter-insurgency in Algeria, the French couldn't really set themselves up as a beacon of tolerance and decency.

The Guardian - Opinion

She described Israel as "a remarkable country... a thriving democracy, a beacon of tolerance, an engine of enterprise and an example to the rest of the world".

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

Although Pakistan is blighted by sectarian bloodshed, rural Sindh Province is a relative beacon of religious tolerance.

The New York Times

"Berlin is the city that transformed itself from the capital of Hitler's Nazi Germany into a beacon of freedom, tolerance, diversity and social cohesion".

The Guardian

Although Crowe questions the myth that London is a beacon of sexual tolerance and writes sensitively about the extent to which primary-school teachers are free to come out, she spends a long time skirting round the big issue.

The Guardian

The killings threaten to tarnish the image of the so-called rainbow nation, whose largely bloodless transition from white minority rule to nonracial democracy has made it a beacon of peace, tolerance and forgiveness.

The New York Times

May all their dreams of peace and prosperity come true, and may they finally assume their place, not just in the Middle East, but also on the world stage, as a beacon of freedom, tolerance and nonviolence, and as true citizens of the world.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "beacon of tolerance" to describe entities, institutions, or individuals that actively promote and embody acceptance and understanding, especially in contexts where these qualities are notably absent or under threat.

Common error

Avoid using "beacon of tolerance" to describe situations or entities where tolerance is superficial, performative, or contradicted by underlying discriminatory practices. Ensure the descriptor aligns with demonstrable actions and policies.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "beacon of tolerance" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often used attributively to describe something or someone that exemplifies and promotes tolerance. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is correct and usable in written English. The examples provided by Ludwig illustrate this function, where entities are described as a "beacon" of positive values.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Formal & Business

14%

Science

14%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "beacon of tolerance" functions as a noun phrase used to describe an entity that exemplifies acceptance and understanding. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While not exceedingly common, as it appears with "Uncommon" frequency across diverse sources such as news media and formal publications, it carries a positive connotation, highlighting the subject's role as a model for others. When using this phrase, ensure the described subject genuinely embodies tolerance to avoid misuse. Alternatives like "symbol of acceptance" or "model of inclusivity" can be considered for similar but subtly different meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

symbol of acceptance

Focuses on the representation of acceptance, rather than guidance or leadership.

model of inclusivity

Emphasizes the act of including diverse groups and perspectives.

exemplar of open-mindedness

Highlights the quality of having a receptive and unbiased attitude.

shining example of understanding

Focuses on empathetic awareness and comprehension.

paragon of acceptance

Uses a more formal term ("paragon") to denote an ideal example of acceptance.

guiding light of empathy

Shifts the focus to empathy as the guiding principle.

promoter of harmony

Highlights the active role of promoting peaceful coexistence.

champion of diversity

Emphasizes active support and advocacy for diversity.

haven of respect

Presents a place offering safety and consideration.

center of understanding

Focuses on a place or entity that serves as a hub for comprehension and mutual respect.

FAQs

How can I use "beacon of tolerance" in a sentence?

You can use "beacon of tolerance" to describe a person, place, or idea that represents and promotes acceptance and understanding. For example, "The university aimed to be a "beacon of tolerance" for students from all backgrounds".

What are some alternative phrases to "beacon of tolerance"?

Some alternatives include "symbol of acceptance", "model of inclusivity", or "exemplar of open-mindedness" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to describe a country as a "beacon of tolerance"?

Yes, it can be appropriate if the country consistently demonstrates policies and practices that promote inclusivity, respect for diversity, and protection of minority rights. However, it's important to ensure this description aligns with reality.

What qualities define something as a "beacon of tolerance"?

Qualities include a commitment to equality, respect for diverse viewpoints, proactive measures to combat discrimination, and a willingness to engage in dialogue and understanding across different groups.