rite of passage

USAGE SUMMARY

'rite of passage' is correct and usable in written English.
It is usually used to refer to an event or experience that marks an important transition or stage in someone's life. For example, you might say "Graduating college was a rite of passage for John and his friends."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

It is an essential rite of passage.

The New York Times

Her rite of passage?

The New York Times - Travel

"A rite of passage.

The New York Times - Sports

It's like a rite of passage".

The New York Times - Arts

It became a rite of passage.

The New Yorker

It's a rite of passage, apparently.

Independent

That's a rite of passage.

The Guardian - Film

It is a rite of passage.

Stanford University

Plus, midterms are a rite of passage.

Stanford University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Is that childhood rite-of-passage worth $850,000?

Harvard University

These are rite-of-passage trees.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about traditions or customs, use "rite of passage" to emphasize the transitional and transformative nature of the experience. For instance, "Confirmation is often seen as a "rite of passage" within the Catholic Church".

Common error

Avoid using "rite of passage" loosely for any minor event. Ensure the event genuinely represents a significant life transition within a cultural context. For example, getting a driver's license is not typically a "rite of passage" unless it holds specific cultural importance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "rite of passage" functions as a noun phrase typically serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms it's usable and grammatically correct. It denotes a specific type of event or experience.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Academia

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

7%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "rite of passage" is a noun phrase that describes an event or experience marking a significant life transition. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and frequently used in various contexts. Its usage spans across news, academia, and even business settings, indicating a neutral register. When using "rite of passage", ensure it accurately reflects a culturally or personally significant transition, not just any minor event. Alternatives include "threshold experience" or "coming-of-age ceremony", depending on the specific context. Being aware of its connotations and appropriate usage ensures clear and impactful communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

passage into adulthood

Directly refers to the transition from childhood to adulthood.

coming-of-age ceremony

Specifically refers to ceremonies marking the transition to adulthood.

initiation

Refers to a formal process of induction or acceptance into a group or status.

threshold experience

Focuses on the experience of crossing a boundary or entering a new phase.

formative experience

Highlights an experience that has a significant impact on personal development.

gateway experience

Implies an initial experience that opens the door to further opportunities.

defining moment

Highlights a specific event that shapes one's character or future.

turning point

Emphasizes a moment of significant change or redirection in life.

baptism of fire

Describes a difficult or challenging first experience.

critical juncture

Implies a crucial point where decisions have lasting consequences.

FAQs

How can I use "rite of passage" in a sentence?

You can use "rite of passage" to describe a ceremony or event that marks a significant transition in a person's life. For example, "Graduation is often considered a "rite of passage" into adulthood".

What is the difference between "rite of passage" and "tradition"?

"Rite of passage" specifically refers to a transitional ceremony or event, while "tradition" is a broader term for customs or beliefs passed down through generations. A "rite of passage" can be a type of "tradition", but not all "traditions" are rites of passage.

What are some examples of events considered "rites of passage"?

Examples include weddings, graduations, bar mitzvahs, quinceañeras, and military inductions. These events mark significant life transitions and often involve specific rituals or ceremonies.

What can I say instead of "rite of passage"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "threshold experience", "defining moment", or "coming-of-age ceremony". These phrases capture the essence of a significant transition or formative experience.