glass ceiling

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "glass ceiling" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a situation where a person is not able to advance in their career due to social, cultural, or corporate obstacles. For example: "Mary encountered a glass ceiling when she applied for the promotion, and she was passed over for someone with less experience."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Take that, glass ceiling!

The New York Times

The glass ceiling persists.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

"Obama broke a glass ceiling. . . .

The Washington Post

The glass ceiling is really there".

The New York Times

"You always hit a glass ceiling".

The New York Times

Blacks have pierced nearly every glass ceiling.

The Economist

Enough about the glass ceiling.

The New York Times

The glass ceiling still exists".

The Guardian

Woo hoo! Glass ceiling gone!

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

The Late-Night Glass Ceiling.

Forbes

See Also: Smashing The Glass Ceiling.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about overcoming obstacles, use "glass ceiling" to highlight the invisible and often unacknowledged barriers faced by specific groups. This adds nuance and depth to the discussion.

Common error

Avoid using "glass ceiling" when describing general career challenges. It specifically refers to systemic barriers affecting particular demographic groups, not individual setbacks.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "glass ceiling" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig confirms its correct usage in describing invisible barriers to advancement.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

73%

Academia

13%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Science

1%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "glass ceiling" effectively describes the invisible, yet persistent, barriers hindering the advancement of specific demographic groups, primarily women and minorities, in their careers. Ludwig's analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage, particularly in News & Media and Academia. While it's a common term, it should be used judiciously to accurately reflect systemic barriers rather than individual setbacks. The frequent use in authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian, underscores its significance in discussions about workplace equality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

stained glass ceiling

Variant used when referring to barriers based on religion.

promotional barrier

Specifically refers to obstacles in getting promoted.

invisible barrier

Focuses on the unseen nature of the obstacle.

unseen obstacle

Highlights the difficulty in recognizing the barrier.

unequal opportunity

Focuses on the lack of fairness in access to advancement.

systemic obstacle

Points to barriers embedded within the structure of an organization or system.

limited advancement

A straightforward description of restricted career progression.

career impediment

A more formal term for something hindering career progress.

implicit constraint

Highlights that the limitation is not explicitly stated but understood.

artificial limit

Emphasizes the constructed, rather than natural, nature of the restriction.

FAQs

How can I use "glass ceiling" in a sentence?

You can use "glass ceiling" to describe invisible barriers hindering the advancement of certain groups, such as women or minorities, in professional settings. For example, "Many women encounter a "glass ceiling" in their careers, preventing them from reaching executive positions".

What are some alternatives to "glass ceiling"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "invisible barrier", "promotional barrier", or "systemic obstacle" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it appropriate to use "glass ceiling" in all contexts?

No, "glass ceiling" is most appropriate when discussing the specific challenges faced by underrepresented groups in achieving higher-level positions. Avoid using it for general career difficulties.

What's the difference between "glass ceiling" and "concrete wall"?

"Glass ceiling" refers to an invisible barrier that is difficult to perceive, while a "concrete wall" implies a more obvious and impenetrable obstacle. The choice depends on the perceived transparency and navigability of the barrier.