patriarchy

USAGE SUMMARY

'patriarchy' is correct and usable in written English.
It is a noun that refers to a system of society or government in which men hold the power and women are largely excluded from it. Example sentence: In many parts of the world, the oppressive influence of patriarchy is still felt today.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This policing of women's bodies starts early, and when young women are told repeatedly that their attire is linked to their worth, they fall prey to the unrelenting standards of capitalist patriarchy in which they are made to feel as though their appearance is the most important aspect of them as women.

The Guardian - Opinion

There's a sort of feminism that thinks it can solve patriarchy through prisons and police.

The Guardian - Opinion

A Ph.D. in chemistry (sorry chemistry majors) does not bring you to an understanding of patriarchy, social norms, gender expectations, human rights, ect.

The Guardian

"I had a direct feeling of contact with 2,000 years of patriarchy and repression.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Many reviewers have commented how perfect the trainers are for "kicking [Texas governor] Rick Perry's ass", or how the trainers were "guaranteed to outrun patriarchy".

The Guardian

Femen members use the power of nudity to counteract patriarchy.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Rhiannon Lucy Cosslett is co-founder and editor of The Vagenda Shockingly for an industry in the western world, the music business is a capitalist patriarchy.

The Guardian - Opinion

Despite being a capitalist patriarchy, though, the music business can also be a terrific vehicle for the voices of women and minorities – and what's unfortunate about this kerfuffle is that the most interesting aspect of it, Cyrus's latest album, Bangerz – a glorious record of freestyle-influenced club tracks, overblown theatrical ballads and hoedown country raps – has been overlooked.

The Guardian - Opinion

The submission of the title is to God, as much as France to Islam, or secular politicians to religious accommodation, or women (who, as ever in a Houellebecq novel, are reduced to flat extras) to a new patriarchy.

The Economist

The other, "A View From The Bridge", is at the Wyndham's Theatre if you want families torn asunder and the woes of overweening patriarchy, it seems Mr van Hove is your man.

The Economist

They dislike Vladimir Putin's regime but they have many other targets too, including academic orthodoxy, patriarchy and consumerism.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about "patriarchy", be specific about the aspects you are addressing. For example, specify whether you are discussing its economic, social, or political manifestations.

Common error

Avoid the assumption that "patriarchy" manifests identically across all cultures and time periods. Recognize its diverse forms and varying impacts.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "patriarchy" is that of a noun. It typically acts as a subject or object within a sentence, denoting a system or structure. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Reference

5%

Social Media

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "patriarchy" is a grammatically correct and frequently used noun that refers to a social system in which men hold primary power and predominate in roles of political leadership, moral authority, social privilege, and control of property. As Ludwig AI confirms, the term is appropriate for use in written English. It is most commonly found in news and media, as well as scientific contexts, reflecting its importance in discussions about social structures and gender dynamics. While alternative phrases like "male dominance" and "gender inequality" can convey similar meanings, "patriarchy" specifically denotes the systemic nature of male power. When using the term, it's important to be specific about the aspects being addressed and to avoid assuming its universal manifestation. Overall, "patriarchy" is a key term for analyzing power dynamics and social structures, with usage that varies across different domains.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

male dominance

Focuses specifically on the dominance aspect, simplifying the broader system implied by "patriarchy".

male supremacy

Emphasizes the belief in male superiority, a core tenet often associated with "patriarchy".

male-dominated society

Highlights the societal aspect where men hold the majority of power and influence, similar to "patriarchy".

androcracy

A more technical term for government or rule by men, a formal synonym for "patriarchy".

sexist system

Broader term referring to any system that discriminates based on sex, but often closely linked to "patriarchy".

gender inequality

Highlights the imbalance of power between genders, which is a consequence of "patriarchy".

male hegemony

Emphasizes the cultural and ideological dominance of men in society, related to "patriarchy".

matriarchy's opposite

Positions "patriarchy" as the converse of a matriarchal system, where women hold primary power.

system of male privilege

Highlights the advantages and benefits men receive within a patriarchal structure.

masculine dominance

Focuses on the dominance of masculine norms and values, which is often a characteristic of "patriarchy".

FAQs

How is "patriarchy" typically used in a sentence?

You can use "patriarchy" to describe a system or structure, as in "The effects of "patriarchy" are still felt today", or to identify a specific patriarchal practice.

What are some alternatives to the word "patriarchy"?

Depending on the context, you might use alternatives such as "male dominance", "male supremacy", or "gender inequality" to convey a similar meaning.

What is the difference between "patriarchy" and sexism?

"Patriarchy" is a system where men hold primary power, while sexism is prejudice or discrimination based on sex. Sexism can be a manifestation or consequence of "patriarchy".

Is the term "patriarchy" still relevant today?

Yes, although the forms it takes may have evolved, "patriarchy" remains a relevant term for describing systems and structures where men disproportionately hold power and influence.