debutante

USAGE SUMMARY

'debutante' is a correct and usable word in written English.
It is traditionally used to refer to a young woman making her public debut into high society, but it can be used more broadly to refer to any person or thing making its debut or first appearance. Example sentence: The crowd cheered when the debutante made her entrance into the ballroom.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Michael Gove, the Tory chief whip, described her as the "most impressive debutante" in the debate, before going on to warn of the perils of a Labour-SNP vote.

The Guardian

The Olympic debutante Young is in the same situation after the fleet racing came to a close in the Laser Radial class.

The Guardian - Sport

But those familiar with the history of debutante balls feel confident that they will not suffer permanent demise.

The Economist

At the annual debutante ball at Houston's River Oaks Country Club, the ballroom gleamed with prosperity.

The Economist

All were made during the decade after his acclaimed debut, "Metropolitan" (1990), inspired by his own experiences in Manhattan during the 1969 debutante season.

The Economist

In Laredo, newly rich Latinos put on debutante balls for their daughters, borrowing from an old southern tradition.

The Economist

In living memory, some middle-class Britons would not allow delivery boys to come to their front door; the tradesmen's entrance was at the side.This sniffy attitude towards commerce was not confined to Britain, nor did it die out with liveried footmen and debutante balls.

The Economist

To British audiences, Tony Blair's mannerisms now seem so much mechanical ingratiation; but, like a debutante falling for a practised seducer, his rapt French listeners gave Mr Blair a standing ovation.

The Economist

Otherwise Russia may risk being the eternal debutante: chattering prettily to all her suitors, but never getting very far with any of them.

The Economist

Today, two-and-a-half centuries and a women's movement later, the debutante ball is a nod to past eras, and young women of college age flock to them whether they are interested in an imminent marriage or not.The cost of playing princess, as might be expected, is steep.

The Economist

Wilson, his son, takes a summer job at a scandal rag, where no amount of ink on his sleeves lives down the day he arrives at work wearing his bowed dancing shoes from debutante balls on the ritzy North Shore.What sets Mr Just's work apart is its prose.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In contemporary contexts, consider whether "debutante" is the most appropriate and inclusive term. Terms like "newcomer" or "rising star" may be more suitable for describing someone making a first appearance in fields beyond high society.

Common error

Avoid using "debutante" in contexts where it might seem outdated or elitist. Modern audiences may not relate to the term's historical connotations, especially if you're not writing about high society or a specific historical period. Opt for more relatable terms if the social context is not relevant.

Linguistic Context

The word "debutante" functions primarily as a noun, referring to a young woman making her formal debut into society. Ludwig provides examples showing its usage in both traditional and contemporary contexts, although traditional usage is more common.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Encyclopedias

21%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "debutante" refers to a young woman making her formal entrance into society, although it can also describe someone new to a particular field. As Ludwig AI points out, the term is considered grammatically correct and usable. While it is frequently found in "News & Media" and "Encyclopedias", contemporary usage requires sensitivity due to its potential to sound outdated. Consider alternatives like "newcomer" or "rising star" in modern contexts where the historical or social class connotations are not relevant. When writing, be mindful of the context and avoid using "debutante" where it might be perceived as elitist or anachronistic. The frequency of usage is "very common", however its real-world applicability must be carefully considered.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

social debutante

A more descriptive variant specifying the social aspect of the debut.

high-society entrant

Specifically denotes a person entering the upper echelons of society.

coming-out girl

Highlights the act of making a formal entrance into society.

society girl

Focuses on the individual's social standing and involvement in high society.

young socialite

Emphasizes youth and participation in social events.

socialite in training

Highlights the preparation and upbringing aimed at integrating into high society.

newcomer

Refers to someone who is newly introduced or making a first appearance in any field.

initiate

Describes someone who is being formally introduced to a group or activity.

female novice

Emphasizes the newness and inexperience of a female individual, particularly in sports and entertainment.

first-timer

General term indicating someone doing something for the first time.

FAQs

How can I use "debutante" in a sentence?

You can use "debutante" to describe a young woman making her formal entrance into society, such as: "The "debutante" was presented at the ball". Alternatively, you can use it more broadly to describe someone new to a field, as in "She is a "debutante" in the world of sports".

What are some alternatives to the word "debutante"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "society girl", "newcomer", or "rising star". The best choice depends on whether you are referring to a formal social debut or a first appearance in a particular field.

Is it appropriate to use the term "debutante" in modern contexts?

While "debutante" is historically associated with formal social debuts, its modern usage can sometimes feel outdated or elitist. Consider your audience and the specific context. More inclusive terms like "newcomer" or "entrant" might be more suitable in many contemporary situations.

What is the significance of a debutante ball?

A debutante ball is a traditional coming-of-age ritual where young women from high society are formally presented to society. It marks their entry into the social scene and is often associated with courtship and marriage prospects. Today, these balls are sometimes seen as symbolic nods to past eras.