colored

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "colored" is considered to be an outdated and potentially offensive term in many contexts, and it is best avoided in written English.
It is best to use a more specific term that reflects the particular race or ethnicity of the person being referenced. For example, one could say "I enjoy having conversations with African Americans" instead of "I enjoy having conversations with colored people."

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

41 human-written examples

H does not imply G, that is, red or (not-colored and square) does not imply colored.

SEP

Red is colored and what else?

SEP

From this, it is concluded that neither objects nor lights are colored in anything like the way we experience them.

SEP

Accordingly, "speaking ever so inclusively", the world is not colored.

SEP

Use this transformation to create a new scene \(S_{I}\), exactly like the old scene \(S\) except that it looks to have differently colored "inverted" fruits (etc).

SEP

For one, we value pieces that lead to a satisfying resolution, particularly if they are colored with negative affect, since this experience is rare in everyday life.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

19 human-written examples

A FUN pool report from Joe Biden's visit to Georgia (the country):VPOTUS touched down in Tbilisi at 18 38 p.m. Met with a long red carpet by two columns of color guard in cream-colored uniforms and carrying bayonets... [The vice-president's] convoy proceeded down President George W. Bush Street, passing scattered groups of people carrying American and Georgian flags.

The Economist

In the case of the color of physical surfaces, "being colored corresponds to the surface spectral reflectance as visually perceived by the animal" (Thompson 1995, Ch. 5, pp. 242 50).

SEP

Given this approach to art criticism, it is thus understandable why Diderot was fascinated by the 'ocular harpsichord' imagined (if not realized) by Father Castel, by which a musician, when striking the keys on a keyboard when playing a piece of music, would not only produce sounds but also produce colors by opening curtains to colored glass panes.

SEP

In such a scenario, subjects who are inverted with respect to each other differ in relevant behavioral dispositions (e.g., dispositions to apply color terms, dispositions to sort colored chips, etc).

SEP

The rise first of black-and-white and then of color television may have led to a change from colored to black-and-white and back to colored dreaming.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When referring to race or ethnicity, avoid using "colored" as it is considered outdated and potentially offensive. Use specific terms that accurately reflect a person's background, such as "Black", "African American", or other relevant ethnic identifiers.

Common error

Avoid using the term "colored" to describe people. It is an outdated term with a history rooted in discrimination. Opt for respectful and accurate identifiers instead.

Linguistic Context

The word "colored" primarily functions as an adjective, modifying nouns to indicate the presence of color. However, it can also function as a noun, though this usage is dated and often carries negative connotations. Ludwig's examples illustrate both adjectival uses (e.g., "colored items") and references to its past usage in racial contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

37%

News & Media

22%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

8%

Reference

8%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

While grammatically valid as an adjective denoting the presence of color, the word "colored" carries significant historical baggage, particularly in racial contexts. Ludwig AI highlights that the term is now considered outdated and potentially offensive when referring to people; contemporary usage favors specific racial or ethnic identifiers. In scientific or descriptive contexts, alternatives like ""tinted"" or ""hued"" offer safer alternatives. Therefore, while the word is not inherently incorrect, careful consideration of context and potential impact is crucial.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

tinted

Replaces "colored" with a more neutral term indicating a slight application of color.

hued

Emphasizes a specific shade or tint, offering a refined alternative.

pigmented

Focuses on the presence of pigment, suitable in scientific or technical contexts.

painted

Suggests a deliberate application of color, differing from inherent coloration.

dyed

Indicates a process of adding color, especially to fabrics or hair.

vibrant

Highlights the intensity and brightness of colors.

multicolored

Specifies the presence of many colors, providing a descriptive alternative.

colorized

Refers to the process of adding color to black and white images or films.

having a color

Uses a more descriptive and literal phrase instead of using a single adjective.

of a certain color

Provides a descriptive alternative that emphasizes specificity.

FAQs

Is it appropriate to use the term "colored" to describe someone's race?

No, the term "colored" is considered outdated and potentially offensive when referring to race. It's best to use more specific and respectful terms like "Black", "African American", or other relevant ethnic identifiers.

What are some alternative words to use instead of "colored"?

Depending on the context, you can use words like "tinted", "hued", or "pigmented". When referring to people, use specific racial and ethnic identifiers.

How can I ensure I'm using respectful language when discussing race and ethnicity?

Prioritize specificity and accuracy. Avoid generalizations and use terms that individuals use to describe themselves. Stay informed about current preferences and sensitivities.

Is there a difference between "colored" and "colourful"?

Yes, "colourful" describes something full of color and is generally positive. "Colored", while meaning having color, carries a negative historical connotation when used to describe people.