machismo

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "machismo" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a strong or aggressive masculine pride, often associated with traditional male roles and behaviors. Example: "His machismo was evident in the way he spoke to his colleagues, often dismissing their opinions as less valid."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Whenever you see a picture of Putin oozing machismo in the wild, he's always kitted out in military-grade apparel.

The Guardian

It was a refreshing surprise to encounter these glorious matriarchs in a country infamous for machismo and misogyny, where the stereotypical ideal female is the retiring mujer abnegada – a paragon of restraint and pious self-sacrifice.

The Guardian - Travel

It is political tokenism, machismo, image candy.

The Guardian - Opinion

More obvious subversives are also refreshed by the Gilbey treatment, which homes in on the anxious silence at the heart of Robert Altman's ceaseless chatter and the fear of women portrayed in Harvey Keitel's performances for Martin Scorsese, polemically contrasted with the flashier machismo of Robert De Niro.

The Economist

The state would intervene to reduce prices, he promised, and would resolve electricity shortages by encouraging energy conservation.Yet his studied sincerity and aura of power, redolent in some eyes of Vladimir Putin's machismo, may appeal to a broad swathe of the Egyptian public.

The Economist

One often suspects the number given is more a reflection of the learner's machismo than anything else) cases means you have fewer prepositions to deal with.

The Economist

If anything, President Dmitry Medvedev and his mentor and prime minister, Vladimir Putin, seem to be enjoying the world's impotent indignation in the face of their new-found machismo.

The Economist

Gradually male machismo is undermined by feminine wiles, and it is the no-nonsense woman who makes fools of them both.

The Economist

This is intensified by loveless relationships with visiting Latin American guerrillas, whose machismo was amplified by the arrogance that comes from believing themselves to be monopoly bearers of historical truth.For friendship, she relied on an engaging group of gays, whose passionate defence of the revolution could not conceal their frustration at its artistic vacuity.

The Economist

The other is that, through a mixture of international indifference, Kremlin provocation and cock-eyed Caucasian machismo, both may at any moment devolve from uneasy truce to renewed fighting (see article).

The Economist

GE hires a particular type, rejecting Ivy-leaguers for graduates from lesser schools or the armed forces, whom it picks more for their confidence, competitiveness and hard work than their exam results.The result is, like Mr Welch himself, an odd mixture of machismo and humility.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "machismo", be mindful of the cultural context. It often carries negative connotations due to its association with sexism and oppression.

Common error

Not all expressions of masculinity are "machismo". Be careful not to generalize positive or neutral masculine traits as inherently negative or aggressive.

Linguistic Context

The term "machismo" functions primarily as a noun, describing a specific type of masculinity. It's used to denote exaggerated or aggressive masculine pride. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Encyclopedias

8%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

Ludwig AI confirms that the term "machismo" is a commonly used and grammatically correct noun to describe exaggerated or aggressive displays of masculinity. It frequently appears in news and media, often used to critique or analyze cultural attitudes associated with traditional male roles. While the term itself is neutral, "machismo" often carries negative connotations due to its links with sexism and dominance. When writing, it's important to be mindful of the cultural context and avoid generalizing all expressions of masculinity as inherently negative.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exaggerated masculinity

Focuses on the over-the-top nature of masculine traits.

toxic masculinity

Highlights the negative and harmful aspects of traditional masculine norms.

male chauvinism

Emphasizes the belief in male superiority.

hypermasculinity

Implies an extreme form of masculinity, often associated with aggression.

masculine bravado

Suggests a display of boldness and confidence linked to masculinity.

male assertiveness

Focuses on the quality of being confident and forceful as a man.

gender role rigidity

Describes strict adherence to traditional masculine roles.

macho posturing

Highlights the act of behaving in an overtly masculine way to impress others.

patriarchal dominance

Refers to the system of male authority and control.

alpha male behavior

Indicates behavior associated with a dominant and aggressive male figure.

FAQs

How can I use "machismo" in a sentence?

You can use "machismo" to describe exaggerated masculine pride or behavior, especially in contexts where it leads to sexism or dominance. For example: "The film critiques the societal impact of "machismo" on interpersonal relationships."

What's a better word for "machismo" with negative connotations?

Depending on the specific context, consider using "toxic masculinity" or "male chauvinism" to emphasize the harmful or oppressive aspects.

Are there positive aspects of "machismo"?

While "machismo" is often criticized, some might argue that its traditional associations with strength and protection can be positive. However, these aspects are often intertwined with negative traits like dominance and control. Consider alternatives that emphasize positive traits without the baggage of "machismo".

What is the difference between "machismo" and "masculinity"?

"Machismo" specifically refers to an exaggerated or toxic form of masculinity characterized by aggression, dominance, and sexism. "Masculinity" is a broader term encompassing all traits and behaviors associated with being male, without necessarily implying negative or harmful aspects.