feudal system

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "feudal system" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing historical social structures, particularly in relation to medieval Europe where land ownership and social hierarchy were defined by feudalism. Example: "The feudal system established a rigid class structure, with lords, vassals, and serfs all playing distinct roles in society."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Feudalism and the related term feudal system are labels invented long after the period to which they were applied.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Despite the survival of institutions and practices associated with the medieval feudal system in the 17th century, historians of that time presented medieval feudalism and the feudal system as declining in importance in the 14th and 15th centuries.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Isn't this a feudal system?

The Guardian - Music

Consider: One day Japan operated on the feudal system.

The New York Times - Magazine

There was never a feudal system, or a hereditary aristocracy.

The Guardian - Books

I grew up in a very feudal system".

Independent

Thus, the feudal system withered and finally collapsed.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The cohesion of the feudal system had weakened.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"Some of them date back to the feudal system".

The New York Times

"This feudal system existed [in Qatar] before the World Cup," he said.

The Guardian

"We will destroy this feudal system that robs all of you," he said.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing the "feudal system", be specific about the geographical region and time period you are referring to, as feudalism varied across different cultures and eras.

Common error

Avoid using the term "feudal system" loosely to describe any hierarchical social structure. Ensure the context involves land ownership, vassalage, and reciprocal obligations characteristic of true feudalism.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "feudal system" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI indicates its correct and usable nature in written English. Examples demonstrate it describing historical social structures.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Encyclopedias

35%

News & Media

45%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "feudal system" is a well-established term used to describe a specific socio-political structure characterized by land exchange for service and loyalty. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and frequently used across various contexts, particularly in encyclopedias, news media, and academic discussions. While the phrase is common, it's important to use it accurately, recognizing its historical specificity and avoiding overgeneralization. Related terms such as "feudal structure" or "manorial system" can offer nuanced alternatives depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

feudal structure

Synonym highlighting the organizational aspect.

feudal society

Focuses on the societal structure rather than just the system itself.

system of vassalage

Focuses on the obligations and dependencies within the system.

manorial system

Highlights the economic aspects and land management of feudalism.

medieval social hierarchy

Specifies the historical period often associated with feudalism.

land tenure system

Emphasizes the rules and regulations related to land ownership.

tributary system

Emphasizes the economic obligations and payments made to rulers.

hierarchical social order

Broadens the concept to any social structure with clear ranks.

patron-client relationship

Highlights the aspect of protection and dependence inherent in feudalism.

lord-vassal relationship

Concentrates on the personal bonds and obligations within feudalism.

FAQs

What is the definition of "feudal system"?

The "feudal system" is a social, economic, and political system that was prevalent in medieval Europe, characterized by a hierarchy where land was exchanged for service and loyalty.

How did the "feudal system" work?

In the "feudal system", a lord granted land (a fief) to a vassal in exchange for military service and loyalty. Peasants worked the land and provided labor and a portion of their produce to the lord.

What are some alternatives to "feudal system"?

Alternatives include "feudal structure", "manorial system", or "hierarchical social order", depending on the specific aspect you want to emphasize.

What led to the decline of the "feudal system"?

The decline of the "feudal system" was influenced by factors such as the rise of centralized monarchies, the growth of towns and a money economy, and peasant revolts.