parade

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "parade" is correct and usable in written English, depending on the context in which it is used.
You can use it when referring to a public procession or celebration, often involving people marching or displaying something in a festive manner. Example: "The annual Thanksgiving parade featured colorful floats and marching bands, drawing thousands of spectators to the streets."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The leader of the centrist Alliance party added: "These talks were never about one parade this summer, they were about agreeing to change the legislation for future years as well as dealing with flags and finding a means of dealing with the past, which provides victims with justice and truth.

The Guardian

The reason they have dropped so far is a planned parade to commemorate two IRA men who blew themselves up transporting a bomb into the town almost 40 years ago.

The Guardian

Even in the super soaraway Sun, he admitted to an interviewer from India Today, the daily parade of topless lovelies was "getting a bit old-fashioned.

The Guardian

The row about a parade has soured relations not only between the DUP and Sinn Féin but within wider Northern Irish society.

The Guardian

The former are turning out in force to protest against a homecoming parade in honour of local troops who have served in British army regiments in Afghanistan and Iraq.

The Guardian

1. Alexito: "Much mirth at the ID parade in The Usual Suspects" 2. Mariner70: "Full Metal Jacket, in the first muster in boot camp, where Pvts.

The Guardian - Film

On his laptop, a grim parade of images flicks past.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

How brilliantly and thrillingly offensive would it be for today's teens to parade around in T-shirts bearing the smiling face of Gary Barlow, OBE? Stewart Lee is appearing free for charity at standup comedy benefits almost weekly for the rest of the year, as usual.

The Guardian - Opinion

The precision parachute drops and state-of-the-art aircraft were among the attractions of a military parade that was once the highlight of the country's National Day but which officials have not dared host since 2008.

The Guardian

It kicks off in at 2am on New Year's Day, seeing in the first light with a colourful (and very loud) parade, featuring dancers peacocking about in elaborate costumes, moving to the rhythm of goatskin drums, cowbells and whistles.

The Guardian - Travel

A retired British couple on an early stroll stop to watch the migrants' quiet parade.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing an event, use "parade" to emphasize a festive and organized procession. For example, "The Thanksgiving Day parade featured elaborate floats and marching bands."

Common error

Avoid using "parade" to describe a simple sequence of events or items that lack the element of public display or organized procession. For example, instead of saying "a parade of problems", consider "a series of problems".

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "parade" is as a noun, referring to an organized procession or public celebration. It can also function as a verb, meaning to march or display something publicly. Ludwig confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "parade" is a very common and grammatically correct term, primarily functioning as a noun to describe organized processions or public celebrations. According to Ludwig, it is usable in written English across various contexts. While its usage is predominantly found in news and media, indicating a neutral register, it can also be adapted for different tones depending on the writing's purpose. Related phrases such as "procession" or "march" can offer alternative ways to express similar concepts. When using "parade", it's best to ensure the context aligns with its core meaning of a public display or organized event, avoiding misuse in abstract or overly simplistic sequences.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

procession

Emphasizes the movement of people or vehicles in an orderly fashion.

march

Highlights the act of walking in a formal, organized manner.

cavalcade

Suggests a ceremonial procession, often involving vehicles or horses.

processional

Similar to "procession" but can also refer to music played during a procession.

pageant

Focuses on a public spectacle or elaborate display.

display

Broadly refers to a public presentation or exhibition.

exhibition

Highlights the act of showing or presenting something publicly.

demonstration

Emphasizes a public display of opinion or support.

motorcade

Specifically refers to a procession of motor vehicles.

cortege

Often refers to a funeral procession or a formal entourage.

FAQs

How can I use "parade" in a sentence?

You can use "parade" to describe an organized procession or public celebration, as in "The annual July 4th parade featured marching bands and decorated floats."

What can I say instead of "parade"?

You can use alternatives like "procession", "march", or "cavalcade", depending on the context.

What is the difference between a "parade" and a "procession"?

While both involve organized movement, a "parade" often implies a festive or celebratory event, whereas a "procession" can be more solemn or formal.

Is it correct to use "parade" to describe a series of items or events?

Yes, "parade" can be used metaphorically to describe a series of things, often with a sense of abundance or display, as in "a parade of opportunities."