hollow gesture

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "hollow gesture" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an action that appears to be meaningful but lacks sincerity or genuine intent. Example: "His apology felt like a hollow gesture, as he continued to behave in the same hurtful way."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

But Palestinian officials dismissed the move as a hollow gesture.

The New York Times

"This is a hollow gesture," said William T. Cunningham, the mayor's communications director.

The New York Times

With television sets in many children's bedrooms, it is a hollow gesture.

The Guardian

In the Daily Mail, Claire Allfree found Toltz "ostentatiously talented", but described the book as "one long, elaborate hollow gesture".

The Guardian - Books

And unless there is sustained support from civic, environmental and political leaders, our opposition will be a hollow gesture".

The New York Times

The snub seemed a hollow gesture of passive-aggressiveness, yet it signalled how Obama's nuclear negotiations with Iran are unsettling the kingdom.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

It's simpler to make hollow gestures toward a noble goal of diversifying the workplace.

The New York Times

In exchange for hollow gestures, Seoul was prepared to expend enormous amounts of political capital and hard cash.

The New Yorker

Other amnesty measures were issued in May, June and November, though activists dismissed them as largely hollow gestures, given the violence.

The New York Times

"Killer Joe," with its stereotypes spread across twice as many characters and hollow gestures toward a social context, is an even blunter, more self-indulgent exercise in excess.

The New York Times

But all steps in the right direction are welcome, otherwise changes to the law itself will become hollow gestures, evoking rhetoric and having little impact on reality.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "hollow gesture" when you want to criticize an action that seems positive on the surface but lacks genuine intent or substance. It's effective in conveying disappointment or skepticism.

Common error

Avoid using "hollow gesture" when the action genuinely reflects an effort to improve a situation, even if the results are limited. The phrase implies insincerity, so ensure it aligns with your intended critique.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "hollow gesture" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "hollow" modifies the noun "gesture". Ludwig AI confirms that this construction conveys that the action is superficial or insincere. It is used to express criticism or disappointment.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "hollow gesture" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe actions lacking genuine intent or substance. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its critical function, indicating that it's frequently employed in news and media to express skepticism or disapproval. Alternatives like "empty gesture" and "meaningless act" offer similar connotations. When using this phrase, ensure that it accurately reflects insincerity rather than simply limited effectiveness to maintain clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Empty gesture

Replaces "hollow" with "empty", emphasizing the lack of real content or significance.

Meaningless act

Shifts from "gesture" to "act", highlighting the lack of purpose or effect.

Futile attempt

Emphasizes the pointlessness and ineffectiveness of the action.

Worthless action

Focuses on the lack of value or merit in the action.

Superficial display

Highlights the shallow and insincere nature of the expression.

Pointless exercise

Highlights that the action has no practical value or outcome.

Vain effort

Suggests the action is done with no real purpose other than to impress others.

Insubstantial move

Indicates the action lacks weight or importance.

Nominal offering

Suggests the action is only symbolic and not genuinely generous.

Formalistic compliance

The action is done only to comply with procedures, lacking actual commitment.

FAQs

How can I use "hollow gesture" in a sentence?

You can use "hollow gesture" to describe an action that appears meaningful but is ultimately insincere or ineffective. For example, "The company's donation to the charity felt like a "hollow gesture" after laying off hundreds of employees".

What's a good alternative to "hollow gesture"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "empty gesture", "meaningless act", or "futile attempt".

Is it appropriate to use "hollow gesture" in formal writing?

Yes, "hollow gesture" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when providing a critical analysis. However, ensure the tone remains objective and avoid overly emotional language.

What makes a gesture "hollow"?

A gesture is considered "hollow" when it lacks genuine intent, substance, or the power to effect real change. It often serves as a superficial attempt to appease or deceive.