pomp

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "pomp" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a showy or ostentatious display, often in the context of ceremonies or celebrations. Example: "The wedding was filled with pomp and grandeur, showcasing the couple's wealth and status."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I was grateful for the facilities and made some lasting friends, but I shared most normal people's disdain for much of the pomp and snobbery.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Looking at town halls of the past - from Victorian Britain to modern functionalism - there is a palpable sense of pomp and authority.

The Guardian

The arms were outstretched and aloft just as they always were in his pomp 10 years ago.

The Guardian - Sport

The royal pomp was mildly disturbed as demonstrators, human rights activists and the families of Britons tortured in Saudi prisons objected to the visit.

The Guardian

Even the strutting pomp of Ziggy and Aladdin Sane, Diamond Dogs and Young Americans seem rather banal now.

The Guardian - Music

The crowd listened quietly for much of Rubio's remarks, which at a brief 13 minutes were largely devoid of the pomp and bombast of the other Republican heavyweights who had descended on Greenville that weekend.

The Guardian

These were fine talents, and some of them, in their pomp, were genuinely world class.

The Guardian - Sport

Even so, candidates are keen that the media and voters follow the exact stage-managing they demand and only truly consider them presidential candidates once they have filed the necessary paperwork with the Federal Election Commission and held a formal launch event with the appropriate level of pomp and circumstance.

The Guardian

Most orchestras would mark a big anniversary with as much pomp and circumstance as they could muster, but not the Berlin Philharmonic.

The Guardian - Music

"Lo, all our pomp of yesterday/ Is one with Nineveh and Tyre!" And yet for most of its postwar history Britain managed to compensate for – even to disguise – its downward global trajectory by spreading its wealth more equally, putting on magnificent royal pageants and, arguably more than any other nation, embracing the cult of youth.

The Guardian - Opinion

At the Oscars, she never had that look of being cowed or over-awed by all the pomp and pageantry.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "pomp" when you want to emphasize the grandeur and impressiveness of a ceremony, display, or event.

Common error

Avoid overusing "pomp" in contexts where a simpler term like "ceremony" or "display" would be more appropriate. "Pomp" carries a strong connotation of extravagance and formality, so reserve it for situations where that feeling is intended.

Linguistic Context

The word "pomp" primarily functions as a noun, denoting a display of magnificence or a grand ceremony. Ludwig examples illustrate its use in describing royal events, historical contexts, and even criticisms of ostentatious displays.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

15%

Less common in

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "pomp" refers to a display of magnificence, frequently used to describe grand ceremonies and events. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and very common, primarily appearing in news and formal contexts. When writing, use "pomp" to emphasize the impressive and elaborate nature of an occasion, but be mindful of its formal connotation. Consider alternatives like "splendor" or "grandeur" depending on the intended tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ceremonial splendor

Emphasizes the grand and formal nature of a ceremony.

grandeur and spectacle

Highlights the impressive and visually striking aspects.

ostentatious display

Focuses on the showy and extravagant presentation.

regal ceremony

Links the ceremony to royalty and majesty.

ceremonial occasion

Indicates a formal event marked by specific rituals.

magnificent display

Highlights the impressive and elaborate nature of the display.

show of magnificence

Emphasizes the impressive and grand nature of the display.

theatrics and pageantry

Suggests a theatrical and elaborate presentation.

formal display

Indicates a structured and conventional presentation.

elaborate ritual

Highlights the intricate and detailed nature of the ritual.

FAQs

How is "pomp" typically used in a sentence?

The word "pomp" is usually used to describe grand and ceremonious occasions. For instance, "The coronation was filled with royal pomp and pageantry".

What words can I use instead of "pomp"?

You can use alternatives like "splendor", "grandeur", or "ceremony" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to use "pomp" to describe a small, informal event?

No, "pomp" is best used to describe events characterized by formality and grandeur. For smaller, informal events, words like "celebration" or "gathering" would be more fitting.

What's the difference between "pomp" and "circumstance"?

"Pomp" refers to the elaborate display and ceremony, while "circumstance" refers to the conditions and details surrounding an event. "Pomp and circumstance" is often used together to describe the overall atmosphere of a grand occasion.