old maid

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "old maid" is a correct and commonly used term in written English.
It is typically used to refer to an unmarried woman who is considered past the usual age for marriage. The phrase can be used in both formal and informal writing. Example: After years of focusing on her career, Sarah still hadn't found a husband and was starting to worry about becoming an old maid.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Who ends up with the Old Maid?

The Economist

"The Old Maid" has many virtues.

The New Yorker

Old maid, simple card game popular with young children.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Alma Winemiller is the old maid's old maid.

The New York Times

Unmarried, she is considered an old maid here.

The New York Times

Her mother accused her of speaking like an old maid.

The New Yorker

I remember - well, to me she looked like an old maid.

Cornell University

Martha Maddox is superb as a sour-faced, dyspeptic old maid.

Stanford University

Jan complains to the phone company, convincing Brad that she's a sexually frustrated old maid.

The New York Times

Whoever holds it is the "old maid" and loses the game.

Encyclopedia Britannica

one beyond the usual age for marriage, an old maid" begins in the early 18th century.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Be aware of the potentially offensive connotations of the phrase "old maid" and consider using more neutral alternatives like "unmarried woman" or "single woman", especially in sensitive contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "old maid" to imply that a woman's value is diminished by her marital status. Focus on individual qualities and accomplishments rather than societal expectations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "old maid" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often used attributively to describe a woman who is unmarried and considered past the conventional age for marriage. As noted by Ludwig AI, the term is frequently found in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "old maid", while grammatically correct, is a noun phrase that carries significant social and historical baggage. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is used to describe an unmarried woman past the age considered typical for marriage, often with negative undertones. While frequently found in News & Media, Academia, and Encyclopedias, its use requires careful consideration due to potentially offensive connotations. It's advisable to opt for more neutral alternatives like "unmarried woman" or "single woman", particularly in contemporary contexts where perpetuating outdated stereotypes should be avoided. Remember to consider the potentially harmful implications before employing the phrase "old maid".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

spinster

A more direct and somewhat dated synonym for an unmarried woman, often older.

unmarried woman

A neutral and factual description, lacking the negative connotations.

single woman

A general term for a woman not currently married, irrespective of age.

woman of advanced years unmarried

A formal and somewhat euphemistic way to describe the situation.

confirmed bachelorette

Implies a deliberate choice to remain unmarried.

maiden lady

An archaic and formal term for an unmarried woman.

never-married woman

Directly states the marital status but can sound clinical.

woman past her prime for marriage

A more descriptive phrase emphasizing the societal expectation.

woman beyond marrying age

Similar to the previous, highlighting age as a factor.

independent woman

Focuses on autonomy rather than marital status, but still implies unmarried.

FAQs

Is it offensive to call someone an "old maid"?

Yes, the term "old maid" is generally considered offensive as it carries negative connotations and implies that a woman's worth is tied to her marital status. It's better to use neutral terms like "unmarried woman" or "single woman".

What's a more respectful way to refer to a woman who has never married?

Using terms like "single woman" or "unmarried woman" is more respectful. These terms are neutral and focus on marital status without negative judgment.

How has the perception of the term "old maid" changed over time?

Historically, the term "old maid" was used to stigmatize women who remained unmarried past a certain age. Today, there's a greater understanding and acceptance of diverse life choices, and the term is largely viewed as outdated and offensive.

Are there any contexts where it's appropriate to use the term "old maid"?

The term "old maid" might be appropriate in historical contexts or when discussing literature that uses the term. However, it should be avoided in contemporary conversations due to its negative connotations. You could also be referring to a card game called "old maid".