social respectability

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'social respectability' is a correct and usable term in written English.
It is a phrase used to describe a person or group of people who possess qualities or behaviors that are seen as socially acceptable or desirable in their particular society. For example, "The family proudly boasted its long-held social respectability and adherence to traditional values."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

Organized competitions helped to counter this negative image and to win surfing some social respectability.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Joan, fully aware of Turing's homosexuality, offers social respectability in return for discretion.

The New York Times - Arts

Becoming Mrs. McCullers would win her the social respectability that had so far eluded her.

The New Yorker

For this new generation of women, independence meant more than "the badge of social respectability that must be won through the torment of boredom".

The New Yorker

He is stupid and horrible (or "neither sensible nor agreeable," as Charlotte thinks), but, like Charlotte, he occupies the very lowest rung on the ladder of social respectability.

The New Yorker

Why, when her grandmother was so obsessed with social respectability, was she herself so keen to act out a life of complete freedom from conventional mores?

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

The Victorians, she says, thought parks were important for promoting social harmony, respectability and family values at a time of rising concerns about children's behaviour, health and welfare.

The Guardian

Is it not the case that therein lies the AfD's key strategy for gaining social acceptance and respectability?

The Guardian

In reviewing his career he saysThe way of life I and my friends had chosen was but a means to attain social advancement and respectability.

The Economist

The typically bourgeois, urban protagonists were often subjected to fears of public humiliation or loss of social esteem or respectability.

Wikipedia

Definitions of art, consequently, spuriously confer ontological dignity and respectability on social phenomena that probably in fact call more properly for rigorous social criticism and change.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing sensitive topics, use "social respectability" to acknowledge the importance of societal norms and values.

Common error

Avoid equating "social respectability" solely with outward conformity; true respectability also involves ethical behavior and genuine contributions to society.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "social respectability" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb or the complement of a preposition. Ludwig examples show it describing a state or quality that individuals or groups either possess or strive to attain.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

24%

Encyclopedias

14%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "social respectability" is a grammatically sound and commonly used noun phrase that describes the degree to which an entity is accepted and esteemed within a society. Ludwig AI analysis confirms the phrase's validity and provides numerous examples of its usage across diverse contexts such as news, science, and encyclopedias. The phrase carries a neutral to formal tone and is used to convey the importance of adhering to societal norms and values. Alternative phrases include "societal acceptance" and "public esteem". When using this phrase, it's important to remember that outward appearances should not be the sole determinant of respectability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Social approval

Directly refers to the act of being approved of by society.

Respect in society

General term for having high regard in the society.

Societal acceptance

Focuses on the acceptance of an individual or group by society.

Positive social image

How a person or group is perceived socially.

Public esteem

Highlights the favorable opinion held by the public.

Good reputation

Emphasizes the positive perception of someone's character or actions.

High social standing

Indicates a position of prominence or importance within society.

Community recognition

Highlights the acknowledgment and respect from a local community.

Moral high ground

Highlights the moral superiority.

Upright citizenship

Highlights proper and respectful behavior withing a community.

FAQs

How can "social respectability" influence one's opportunities?

Often, maintaining "social respectability" can open doors to professional networks, community involvement, and other avenues of personal and career advancement. However, it's important to balance this with authenticity and personal values.

What does it mean to gain "social respectability"?

Gaining "social respectability" usually involves conforming to societal norms, adhering to ethical standards, and contributing positively to your community. It's about earning the esteem and trust of those around you.

How important is "social respectability" in modern society?

While individualistic values are increasingly emphasized, "social respectability" still holds significance in many communities. It can influence social standing, professional prospects, and personal relationships. However, the definition of what constitutes respectability can vary widely across different groups and cultures.

What are some alternatives to the phrase "social respectability"?

Alternatives to "social respectability" include "societal acceptance", "public esteem", or "good reputation", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.