hallmark card

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "hallmark card" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to greeting cards produced by Hallmark, often associated with sentimental or special occasions. Example: "I always choose a Hallmark card for my mother's birthday because they have such heartfelt messages."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

Well, it's certainly no Hallmark card.

The New York Times

It's nothing close to a Hallmark card.

The New York Times - Arts

Fendi took the place of a Hallmark card store.

The New York Times - Style

Yet it's not exactly been a Hallmark card.

The New York Times

"Looks like a Hallmark card," another e-mailer complained.

The New York Times

Perhaps the real thing isn't just a Hallmark card sentiment.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

"I was worried about making an overly sentimental, Hallmark card-type film about disabled people," he said while in New York recently.

The New York Times

Normally it's a touching Hallmark-card kind of scene.

The New York Times

The title notwithstanding, it does not make for Hallmark-card copy.

The New York Times

One or another version of this excuse will cross your lips like some dark, knee-jerk Hallmark-card sentiment.

The New York Times

The generic canned songs that sound exactly like their Hallmark-card titles -- "Scent of Victory," "Call to Glory," "Reach for the Sky," "Gentle Winds," "No Limits".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "Hallmark card" to refer to something that is conventional, sentimental, or mass-produced. It can be used literally to refer to a card from the Hallmark brand, or figuratively to describe something similar in style or sentimentality.

Common error

While "Hallmark card" is a recognizable term, overuse can make your writing sound cliché. Consider using more descriptive language to convey the same idea without relying on the phrase.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Hallmark card" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often used attributively to describe something characterized by sentimentality, conventionality, or a mass-produced expression of emotion. Ludwig AI confirms its frequent use in describing art, events, or sentiments.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Science

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "Hallmark card" is a common noun phrase used to describe something characterized by sentimentality, conventionality, or a mass-produced expression of emotion. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in News & Media. While understandable, it can sometimes carry a critical connotation, suggesting a lack of originality. When writing, consider whether a more descriptive or precise term might better suit the context. The phrase often points to mass-produced sentiment, and is widely used as a synonym for "greeting card". Ultimately, its effectiveness hinges on understanding the nuances of its meaning and using it judiciously.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

greeting card

A more general term for a card expressing sentiments.

sentimental card

Emphasizes the emotional aspect of the card.

occasion card

Highlights the purpose of the card for a specific event.

mass-produced sentiment

Focuses on the commercial and often impersonal nature.

saccharine message

Highlights the overly sweet or sentimental nature.

conventional greeting

Emphasizes the traditional and expected aspect.

store-bought card

Indicates the card was purchased rather than handmade.

commercial expression of affection

Highlights the business aspect of expressing feelings.

pre-printed message

Focuses on the lack of personalization.

formulaic sentiment

Emphasizes the predictable and unoriginal nature.

FAQs

How can I use "hallmark card" in a sentence?

You can use "Hallmark card" to describe something overly sentimental or conventionally expressive, as in, "The movie had a "Hallmark card" ending".

What does it mean when something is described as a "hallmark card"?

It typically means the subject is perceived as overly sentimental, generic, or conventionally expressive of emotion, much like the sentiments often found in greeting cards produced by Hallmark.

What are some alternatives to the phrase "Hallmark card"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "greeting card", "sentimental card", or "occasion card".

Is it appropriate to use "Hallmark card" in formal writing?

While understandable, "Hallmark card" is generally more appropriate for informal or neutral writing. In formal contexts, consider using more precise language to describe the sentiment or style you're referring to.