conform to preconceptions

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "conform to preconceptions" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing how someone or something aligns with existing beliefs or assumptions. Example: "The artist's work often challenges viewers to think beyond their preconceptions, rather than simply conform to them."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

But I won't conform to preconceptions.

The Guardian - Opinion

4. Reality Distortions - Distorting reality to conform to preconceptions.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

The fact that it does not completely conform to our preconceptions of wilderness should not prevent us from seeing that its value cannot simply be measured in barrels or dollars.

The New York Times

This is very strange, or at least it says something strange about the way that perception routinely conforms to the preconceptions it would appear to contradict.

The New York Times - Books

The media representations of Iran in the West are strangulated and distorted both in their creation and at their reception; firstly by strict censorship and secondly through an editing process conforming to populist preconceptions.

Huffington Post

Preconceptions about Mexico are rife and deep-rooted, but few countries conform to stereotypes as unwillingly.

Independent

It refused to conform to clothing stereotypes.

The New York Times

Increasingly, these conform to party lines.

The New Yorker

Each seems to conform to a stereotype.

The New York Times - Arts

The place will never conform to you.

The New York Times

Albinos conform to riding horse type.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "conform to preconceptions" when you want to highlight how something aligns with existing beliefs or assumptions, especially when those beliefs might be limiting or inaccurate. Be mindful of the potentially negative implications of reinforcing stereotypes.

Common error

Avoid using "conform to preconceptions" when a more nuanced analysis is required. The phrase can sometimes imply that something is simply reinforcing existing biases, when in reality, the situation might be more complicated. Consider whether the alignment with preconceptions is justified or problematic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "conform to preconceptions" functions as a verb phrase, indicating an action of aligning with or adhering to existing beliefs or assumptions. As Ludwig AI points out, the phrase is grammatically correct. It frequently describes how something agrees with established notions.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Huffington Post

16%

Science

16%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "conform to preconceptions" is a grammatically correct verb phrase that describes the act of aligning with existing beliefs or assumptions. Ludwig AI confirms this, and the provided examples showcase its use primarily in News & Media contexts. While not a highly frequent phrase, it serves to highlight how something reinforces established notions, potentially with negative implications of reinforcing stereotypes or a lack of originality. Consider alternatives like "adhere to assumptions" or "align with expectations" depending on the desired nuance. Be mindful of potentially oversimplifying complex situations when employing this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

adhere to assumptions

This phrase emphasizes sticking closely to pre-existing assumptions.

align with expectations

This phrase focuses on meeting pre-existing expectations.

fit existing beliefs

This phrase highlights the compatibility of something with established beliefs.

affirm preconceived notions

This phrase suggests confirming ideas formed beforehand.

validate stereotypes

This phrase implies confirming or reinforcing existing stereotypes, which may carry a negative connotation.

reinforce stereotypes

Similar to "validate stereotypes", this phrase suggests strengthening pre-existing stereotypes.

uphold established views

This emphasizes maintaining established or traditional viewpoints.

mirror existing biases

This phrase suggests reflecting existing biases or prejudices.

bow to conventional wisdom

This implies submitting to widely accepted, but potentially unexamined, beliefs.

acquiesce to stereotypes

This indicates reluctantly accepting stereotypes.

FAQs

How can I use "conform to preconceptions" in a sentence?

You can use "conform to preconceptions" to describe how something aligns with existing beliefs, for example: "The movie's plot failed to challenge, instead it "conformed to preconceptions" about gender roles."

What are some alternatives to "conform to preconceptions"?

Alternatives include phrases like "adhere to assumptions", "align with expectations", or "validate stereotypes", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it always negative to "conform to preconceptions"?

Not necessarily. While it can imply a lack of originality or critical thinking, sometimes aligning with existing beliefs is necessary or expected. The context determines whether it's positive, negative, or neutral.

What's the difference between "conform to preconceptions" and "meet expectations"?

"Meet expectations" generally implies fulfilling a specific requirement or standard. "Conform to preconceptions" suggests aligning with a broader set of pre-existing beliefs or assumptions, which may not be explicitly stated as requirements.