breach of taboo

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "breach of taboo" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase usually refers to the violation of a widely accepted social or religious rule. For example: "The artist's painting was seen as a breach of taboo within many traditional communities."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Moreover, it is believed that an offense against the totems through a breach of taboo will produce a corresponding decrease in the size of the clan.

Encyclopedia Britannica

King Abdullah gained worldwide renown for his sponsorship of a new graduate-level university, named for him, in which classes and laboratory sessions are coeducational, a breach of taboo that heartened liberals across the country.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Halfway through the book many readers will feel they have read quite enough reverential descriptions of naturist and pagan cults in 1930s Britain.He chronicles the breaching of taboos about public nakedness on stage and screen, and the increasing use of nudity in political protests.

The Economist

Breach of the taboo carries with it sickness or death.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The totem also punishes the breach of any taboo.

Encyclopedia Britannica

There's a moment when Rochester, lounging in his chair, bars Jane's exit with his outstretched foot and even in 2016 it feels like a dangerous breach of social taboo.

The Guardian

It was notable that local illness beliefs, like witchcraft or the breach of a taboo, were not associated with OCV acceptability in DRC.

BMC Public Health

In "Halo" the dancers perform the breaching of a taboo — touching strangers, breaking the code of performance — with forceful intent.

The New York Times - Arts

Additionally, we can see that extreme circumstances bring breaches of this "taboo" quite rapidly - events such as the Donner Party, and the Andes air crash (where survivors discussed the relevance of the Communion before taking the decision to eat their dead colleagues) suggest that far from being a fate worse than death, as we might expect of a taboo, any of us might partake if it were necessary.

The Guardian - Opinion

It is comedy's job, say some, to probe the boundaries of the sayable, and to breach taboos – although some taboos are easier breached than others.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It was a breach of etiquette, bordering on taboo, for an outsider to observe the Nyau dance.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing sensitive cultural topics, use the phrase "breach of taboo" to objectively describe a violation without necessarily condoning or condemning it.

Common error

Avoid using the phrase "breach of taboo" in casual conversation or informal writing. It's generally more appropriate for academic, journalistic, or formal contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "breach of taboo" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes an action or event that violates a deeply held social or cultural norm, as confirmed by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Encyclopedias

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "breach of taboo" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase referring to the violation of a social or cultural norm. As Ludwig AI confirms, it functions primarily as a noun phrase. While instances are relatively rare, it is found across different contexts, from news and media to scientific and encyclopedia sources. When using this phrase, it's best to reserve it for more formal or neutral registers due to its specific and serious connotation. Related phrases include "violation of taboo" and "transgression of taboo". Be mindful that while "breach of taboo" can objectively describe a violation, context matters greatly to avoid unintended implications or offense.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

violation of taboo

Focuses on the action of violating the taboo.

transgression of taboo

Emphasizes crossing a boundary or limit set by the taboo.

breaking a taboo

Highlights the act of shattering or disregarding the taboo.

defying a taboo

Suggests a deliberate resistance against the taboo.

infringement of taboo

Implies a more formal or legalistic violation.

disregarding a taboo

Focuses on ignoring or paying no attention to the taboo.

overstepping a taboo

Emphasizes exceeding the accepted boundaries of the taboo.

ignoring a taboo

Similar to disregarding, but can also imply lack of awareness.

challenging a taboo

Highlights questioning or contesting the validity of the taboo.

flouting a taboo

Implies openly and shamelessly disregarding the taboo.

FAQs

How can I use "breach of taboo" in a sentence?

You can use "breach of taboo" to describe an action that violates a social or cultural norm. For example, "The artist's work was considered a "breach of taboo" by the conservative community".

What are some alternatives to "breach of taboo"?

Alternatives include "violation of taboo", "transgression of taboo", or "breaking a taboo", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "breach of taboo" formal or informal?

"Breach of taboo" is generally considered a formal phrase, suitable for academic, journalistic, or professional writing. More casual alternatives may be preferable in informal contexts.

What kind of actions are considered a "breach of taboo"?

Actions considered a ""breach of taboo"" vary depending on the culture and the specific taboo in question. They can range from dietary restrictions to social customs to religious practices.