goblin

USAGE SUMMARY

The part of the phrase "goblin" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it in contexts related to fantasy, folklore, or when describing mischievous or malevolent characters. An example: "The goblin sneaked through the shadows, plotting its next mischief." Alternative expressions include "creature," "imp," or "sprite."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In a disproportionately large number of what could be termed "social catastrophes", alcohol featured hugely – squatting right at the centre of the mayhem in the manner of a smirking dipsomaniac goblin.

The Guardian - Opinion

A hunched, limping goblin with his tuxedo jacket tucked into his unzipped trousers, he'd seem weird even on the opening rounds of Britain's Got Talent.

Independent

It's a sarcastic comment on people who are more interested in food than their surroundings.' Tengu The tengu features widely in Japanese folk religion – a goblin with a big nose and a red face.

Independent

Alternative online realities that allow us to reinvent ourselves as sexier, wealthier, or more reptilian individuals become a compelling option – but they don't change the fact that we're sitting on a sofa in our underwear directing an goblin carrying a shield into a cave that doesn't even exist.

Independent

Two years later, a one-millimetre species of goblin spider was discovered on Horn Island, off the coast of Australia, and named Prethopalpus attenboroughi, or Attenborough's goblin spider.

Independent

Despite my steady march towards the big 3-0, I honestly think I know less about myself now than I did when I was 12. Young adulthood, the early years of a career, buying your first home, trying to convert a boyfriend into a life partner - these are all hard enough adaptations to make without adding (in the majestic words of Mila Kunis) "a love goblin" to the mix.

Independent

We can't have anything, because we've got your little love goblin growing inside of us.

Independent

He has several newly-discovered species and fossils named after him, including a goblin spider (Prethopalpus attenboroughi) and an Indonesian flightless weevil (Trigonopterus attenboroughi).

Independent

He presides over a hellish goblin kingdom that rekindles memories of Hieronymous Bosch paintings.

Independent

That relationship didn't last: Wood was cautioned for assault and Ivanova described him as an "evil goblin king".

Independent

At The Big Chill (one for the nostalgics out there) are Stephen Morrison and Alex Jenkins, who wrote their own Choose Your Own Adventure book ("Remove the small goblin clinging to Merlin's beard and turn to page 46") in spoof style.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "goblin" in writing, ensure the context aligns with its traditional meaning as a grotesque and malevolent creature from folklore. Consider the specific attributes of goblins in different mythologies to add depth to your descriptions.

Common error

Avoid using "goblin" as a generic term for any small creature. Its specific association with malice and ugliness should be considered to prevent unintended negative implications or mischaracterizations.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "goblin" is as a noun, referring to a supernatural creature. Ludwig AI examples show it used both literally, describing such beings, and metaphorically, to describe unpleasant people or things.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Encyclopedias

12%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "goblin" functions primarily as a noun, denoting a malevolent and grotesque creature from folklore, as supported by the various examples Ludwig AI provides. While grammatically correct and very common in use, particularly within news, media, and encyclopedic contexts, its connotation often implies negativity or mischief. Therefore, when using "goblin", it's crucial to consider its specific meaning and context to avoid misinterpretations. Related terms like "hobgoblin" and "imp" can serve as alternatives, depending on the desired nuance. Remember to avoid using "goblin" as a generic term for small creatures to prevent unintended negative implications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

hobgoblin

Refers to a mischievous or frightening goblin, often used interchangeably.

imp

Denotes a small, mischievous devil or demon, similar in nature to a goblin.

sprite

A general term for a supernatural being, often small and mischievous.

gremlin

A mischievous creature known for causing mechanical problems.

orc

A brutish, aggressive humanoid creature common in fantasy settings.

demon

An evil spirit or devil.

fiend

An evil or wicked person or thing.

monster

A frightening creature, often of unnatural or exaggerated size.

bogeyman

A mythical figure used to frighten children.

creature

A general term for any living being, often used when the specific nature is unknown or unimportant.

FAQs

How can I use "goblin" in a sentence?

You can use "goblin" to describe a malevolent and grotesque creature, as in, "The goblin lurked in the shadows, plotting its next act of mischief." It can also be used metaphorically to describe someone with unpleasant characteristics.

What are some synonyms for "goblin"?

Synonyms for "goblin" include "hobgoblin", "imp", and "sprite", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "goblin" in formal writing?

While "goblin" is generally suitable for creative writing and informal contexts, its use in formal writing may be limited to discussions of folklore or specific cultural references. Consider the tone and audience when making your decision.

What is the difference between a "goblin" and an "orc"?

While both "goblin" and "orc" refer to monstrous humanoids, goblins are typically depicted as smaller, more mischievous, and sometimes cowardly, whereas orcs are often larger, more brutal, and more directly aggressive.