mixed backgrounds

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "mixed backgrounds" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe individuals or groups that come from diverse or varied cultural, social, or educational backgrounds. Example: "The team was composed of members with mixed backgrounds, bringing a wealth of perspectives to the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Science & Research

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

33 human-written examples

They come from similarly mixed backgrounds: Khan is British-Bangladeshi, Cherkaouisis Flemish-Moroccan.

The Guardian

Changing exhibitions will explore other kinds of Asian identities, like those associated with sexual preferences or mixed backgrounds.

The New York Times - Arts

"Children of Mixed Backgrounds Often Struggle to Find Their Place" is a now-shocking headline in the newspaper coverage of Lydia's funeral.

The Guardian - Books

Many young adults of mixed backgrounds are rejecting the color lines that have defined Americans for generations in favor of a much more fluid sense of identity.

The New York Times

Many of the Red Devils have mixed backgrounds, including Kompany, whose father was a Congolese immigrant; Marouane Fellaini, whose parents were from Morocco; and Adnan Januzaj, who has Kosovan-Albanian parentage.

The Guardian

There was a large contingent of riders from the north-west, as well as corporate team membership, many with very expensive bikes, but despite mixed backgrounds and resources, the experience was a great leveller.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

27 human-written examples

There is also disapproval of those who are prejudiced against characters of mixed background (mud-bloods).

The New York Times

I thought of myself simply as Spanish, not English or Irish or even of mixed background.

The New York Times

As she sees it, her mixed background gives her a choice of racial identity and access to everybody.

The New York Times

The movie, at Film Forum March 7-13, has a mixed background of Jewish and non-Jewish petty criminals, gamblers, and adulterers.

The New Yorker

For a man of his mixed background and unique gifts, however, light verse proved the perfect outlet.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing groups, using "mixed backgrounds" highlights the diversity of experiences and perspectives they bring. This can be particularly effective in fields like research or creative endeavors, where varied viewpoints are valuable.

Common error

While "mixed backgrounds" can refer to racial or ethnic diversity, be mindful of focusing solely on these aspects. Consider also acknowledging diverse socio-economic, educational, or professional histories to provide a more complete picture.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "mixed backgrounds" functions as a noun phrase, often used as a subject complement or object of a preposition. It describes individuals or groups characterized by diversity in their origins, experiences, or identities. This aligns with Ludwig's confirmation of its correct and usable nature.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

32%

Science & Research

16%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "mixed backgrounds" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase, effectively employed to denote diversity in origins, experiences, or identities. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is versatile and appropriate for various contexts, ranging from academic and scientific discussions to news reports and general communication. When using this phrase, it's beneficial to consider the specific aspects of diversity you want to highlight, and avoid limiting its application solely to race or ethnicity. Alternatives such as "diverse origins" or "varied heritage" can offer nuanced emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

diverse origins

Focuses specifically on the varied beginnings or heritage of individuals or groups.

varied heritage

Highlights the diverse cultural and ancestral roots.

multicultural experiences

Emphasizes the experiences gained from interacting with multiple cultures.

varied experiences

Highlights the different types of experiences that people have.

eclectic mix

Indicates a diverse combination of elements, not strictly limited to backgrounds.

assorted origins

Similar to diverse origins, but may imply a less structured combination.

heterogeneous roots

Uses a more formal term to describe diverse and dissimilar ancestral lines.

intercultural heritage

Stresses the interaction and blending of different cultures within one's background.

blended backgrounds

Highlights the merging or combining of different origins.

multiple affiliations

Suggests diverse connections and associations, broader than just cultural or ethnic backgrounds.

FAQs

How can I use "mixed backgrounds" in a sentence?

You can use "mixed backgrounds" to describe a group or individuals with varied origins, experiences, or expertise. For example: "The success of the project was due to the team's "mixed backgrounds"".

What are some alternatives to the phrase "mixed backgrounds"?

Alternatives include "diverse origins", "varied heritage", or "multicultural experiences", depending on the specific aspect you want to emphasize.

Is it better to say "diverse backgrounds" or "mixed backgrounds"?

"Diverse backgrounds" and "mixed backgrounds" are often interchangeable. However, "mixed" might imply a combination of typically distinct categories, while "diverse" simply highlights variety. Choose the term that best fits the context.

Can "mixed backgrounds" refer to professional or educational experiences, or only ethnicity?

"Mixed backgrounds" can apply to various aspects, including ethnicity, cultural heritage, professional experiences, educational backgrounds, and socio-economic origins. Its scope depends on the context.